The Captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Ajinkya Rahane, was criticized for opting to bat first on Monday during their clash with Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens. Various experts, including Anil Kumble and Ravichandran Ashwin, pointed out that the decision was not prudent due to the probability of rain. In the event of rain, the captain of the winning side always opts to field first since it helps set a target. Moreover, Eden Gardens is generally known to be a challenging ground for defending a total. Thus, the decision made by Rahane has been questioned.

During the Punjab Kings' match, the spinners, namely Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, were not available for the side. Therefore, people assumed that Rahane would opt to bowl first.

This decision was immediately proven wrong when Xavier Bartlett performed brilliantly with the ball in overcast conditions, dismissing both Finn Allen and Cameron Green in the same over. Rain started soon after, and play had to be stopped.

Both Kumble and Saba Karim criticized Rahane for deciding to bat first in such conditions, saying that bowling would have been a better option. During the rain interruption, Kumble said on JioHotstar's broadcast, "I am surprised that Rahane won the toss and decided to bat first. On a pitch where there is a possibility of rain, ideally you should field first." Saba Karim, meanwhile, said, "I don't understand this decision. It is completely beyond my understanding."

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin echoed Kumble's sentiments, calling KKR's decision to bat first interesting. He wrote on X, "When you know the match will be affected by rain and you have an inexperienced bowling attack, you decide to bat first. Interesting thinking."

Former Bengal batsman Shreevats Goswami was also unhappy with Rahane's strategy. He wrote on X, "It was surprising to see Rahane win the toss and elect to bat first despite the overcast conditions. It was a bit surprising. There was immediate swing and two catches behind. A very brave decision."

Rahane has been making headlines this season, as he has appeared more aggressive than usual. After the loss against Sunrisers Hyderabad, he lashed out at his critics, saying they were jealous of him. Let us tell you that KKR has finally got one point due to the match being washed out due to rain on Monday.