Virender Sehwag, the former Indian cricketer, has publicly criticized Ajinkya Rahane, captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), for his recent comments following the team's disappointing start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Rahane had made remarks regarding Cricket Australia's management of Cameron Green and suggested that critics of his strike rate had a 'certain agenda.' Sehwag responded by invoking the example of Sachin Tendulkar, emphasizing that even the greatest players face criticism but choose not to engage publicly. He stated, 'If you respond, it becomes a win for the critics, not for you.' Sehwag's comments came after KKR's match against Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens, which was interrupted by rain and ended after just 3.4 overs, resulting in both teams sharing a point. This match did little to alleviate the pressure on KKR following their lackluster performance in the tournament thus far.