Many were criticising my technique against the short ball and that really hurt me: Nitish Rana

Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Nitish Rana is enjoying a decent run with the bat in IPL 2023 and is the second leading run-scorer for the side behind breakthrough star 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 enjoying a purple patch for the Kolkata-based franchise this year, he revealed the criticism he faced regarding his technique against short-balls.

The southpaw admitted that he was ‘really hurt’ by the criticism as it came from some of the most revered personalities of the field. He revealed working on his technique post those harsh words and has looked seemingly comfortable against short balls this season.

“I have worked on facing the short ball, and it is showing in my batting now. Because many were criticising my technique against the short ball. Many, many big people, who I would not name, have said things about my short-ball technique.

Some even phone-called me directly, and that really hurt me. So, I have worked on my batting and dedicated my all to the game. I am in a better shape as well, and batting well as well,” Rana said in an interaction with former Indian batter Mohammed Kaif on Star Sports.

KKR faces a stiff test against a wounded Rajasthan Royals

Rana’s team will square off against Rajasthan Royals in their upcoming fixture, with both teams locked on ten points apiece. A victory for the Men in Purple will tremendously boost their chances of securing a place in the playoff of the 16th edition of the tournament.