Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) win over Delhi Capitals could be more delightful if their skipper, Ajinkya Rahane, did not get himself injured. Sunil Narine did the captaincy job after Rahane's departure from the field.

The defending champion franchise is already in an uncomfortable situation, near the IPL 2025 exit door, and now has to think about their captain's injury. Kolkata Knight Riders next will face Rajasthan Royals at the Eden Gardens on May 4. Ajinkya Rahane's availability for the match is not yet sure.

KKR spinner Anukul Roy has informed us that the experienced batter has gotten a few stitches in his hand. KKR fans are speculating, if Rahane is not able to play, then who can be the right fit on the playing XI?

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Rahane's injury can be a major crisis for the team if his injury is found to be more than minor. He not only provides his experience but also a pivotal part in the middle to balance the batting lineup. Rahane's absence can force KKR team management to change the approach and tactics on the field. 

3 possible replacements for an injured Ajinkya Rahane:

• Moeen Ali: If the team management wants someone who can hold a side of the wicket, then Moeen Ali can be the right choice, the all-rounder who has scored over a thousand runs in IPL and bagged 38 wickets. In the ongoing IPL 2025, he has yet to showcase his batting talent but took 3 wickets in 4 matches. 
• Manish Pandey: In terms of experience, Manish Pandey is another candidate in the squad who can replace Rahane. The flamboyant right-hand top-order batter can add some important runs for a handsome total on the scoreboard. So far, in the ongoing IPL 2025, he has played only one match, where he scored only 19 runs. Last season he played only one match and got a useful 42-run knock for KKR. 
• Ramandeep Singh: An unexpected poor IPL 2025 outing so far for Ramandeep Singh after he got retained by Kolkata Knight Riders. He played an important role behind KKR's trophy win, but this year, he's completely out of form. But still, KKR management can rely on his talent, especially in terms of limited overs cricket. He can be useful in middle and lower-middle-order batting positions.