KKR vs PBKS: “Interesting thought process” – Ashwin questions KKR’s decision to bat first

Kolkata were reduced to 25/2 in 3.4 overs before rain abandoned the match.

Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) decision to bat first against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2026 at the Eden Gardens drew mixed reactions from several players and experts.

As per the forecast, heavy rainfall was expected during the match. Due to the likely conditions, most people thought KKR would bowl first after winning the toss. However, KKR’s skipper, Ajinkya Rahane, chose to bat first. The decision became the taking point of the match, especially on the back of KKR’s rather modest bowling attack.

KKR then were reduced to 25/2 in 3.4 overs before rain stopped the game. The rain didn’t relent and the match was eventually abandoned, with both teams adding a point each to their respective tallies.

Former spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, shared his thoughts on X, “When you know it’s going to be a rain affected game, with an inexperienced bowling attack at your disposal, you choose to bat first. Interesting thought process.”

Former KKR wicketkeeper-batter, Shreevats Goswami also expressed his view on the decision via X. “Very surprised to see Rahane winning the toss & electing to bat first on a overcast condition. Bit of a shocker there. Immediately you can see swing and 2 caught behinds. Very very brave call.”

On his part, Rahane explained the reason behind their choice of batting first. “We are going to bat first. Looks like a good wicket. A little bit on the dry side. But it looks very good wicket. Slightly less grass on the surface that’s why we want to bat first,” he said to the host broadcaster.

After playing there games, KKR have a solitary point against their name.