Many criticised my technique against the short ball, which deeply wounded me:

Nitish Rana The captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders, Nitish Rana, is having a solid IPL 2023 season with the bat and is the team’s second-leading run-scorer behind breakout sensation Rinku Singh. Rana, who was handed the responsibility of leading the side after Shreyas Iyer’s injury, revealed the criticism he faced due to his susceptibility against short balls.

While Jason Roy’s form at the top of the order has aided Kolkata’s batting efforts in the recent matches, skipper Nitish Rana has been a dependable asset for the team, steading the ship for the side most often. Although he is experiencing a purple patch for the Kolkata-based franchise this year, he disclosed the criticism he received regarding his short-ball technique.

The southpaw acknowledged that he was “extremely hurt” by the criticism because it came from some of the sport’s most revered figures. He revealed working on his technique post those harsh remarks and has looked seemingly comfortable against short balls this season.

“I have practiced facing the short ball, and it is now reflected in my batting. Because numerous individuals had criticized my technique against the short ball. Numerous notable individuals, whom I will not name, have commented on my short-ball technique.

Some even phone-called me directly, and that really hurt me. Therefore, I have focused on my batting and committed myself fully to the sport. In an interview with former Indian batsman Mohammed Kaif on Star Sports, Rana stated, “I am also in better physical condition and batting well.”

KKR confronts a stiff test against a wounded Rajasthan Royals
The upcoming match between Rana’s squad and the Rajasthan Royals will feature both teams tied at ten points. A victory for the Men in Purple will considerably enhance their chances of securing a place in the playoff of the 16th edition of the tournament.