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At the halfway stage of IPL 2026 it looks like anything is not going in favor of Kolkata Knight Riders as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side has managed to claim only victory after playing seven games in the ongoing season. Amid the times of troubles, KKR has found backing from their former player Sheldon Jackson.
Sheldon Jackson on KKR's struggles
In an interaction with Sports Now, the former KKR wicket keeper-batter urged everyone to go easy with their judgement as the tournament has reached its halfway stage only, saying this is the same squad that won the title in IPL 2024 season. However, Sheldon believes that the Ajinkya Rahane-led side is not making the right decisions.
"At times I feel it’s very easy and we are very quick to judge players and everyone involved. I feel our judgments should not come so fast. This is the same team that has brought glory. Right now, maybe they are not winning or not making the right decisions—whether in the playing XI or batting order," said Sheldon.
Reflecting on players' lack of form the domestic stalwart said that it's normal part and parcel of the game as not everyone can perform with the same level of consistency across seasons.
"One thing I always feel is that players’ form goes up and down. Every year they can’t score 700–800 runs, and bowlers can’t take 20–30 wickets consistently. When that doesn’t happen collectively, you don’t get those two points. And when it does, nobody can stop you," added Sheldon.
"KKR has done comebacks before. They’ve lost many matches and still reached finals or won titles," Sheldon added.
Sheldon Jackson backs Abhishek Nayar
The former wicket keeper-batter has backed Abhishek Nayar, saying that his comparisons with former KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir is total nonsense as it is really difficult to match that level. Sheldon admitted that Gautam Gambhir was the best KKR has had but ruling Abhishek would be very unfair, while noting his work ethics.
Also Read: CSK announce former MI star as Ayush Mhatre's replacement for remainder of IPL 2026
"Nobody can compare what Gautam Gambhir has done. He’s the best KKR has had. But now Abhishek Nayar has been given responsibility, you have to give him time," he said.
Recalling his personal experience with Nayar, Sheldon said that he relentlessly focuses on how to get the best from his players.
"I’ve worked with him. He’s a very hard worker. From morning to evening, he’s focused on improving players. If you’ve trusted someone, you must give them time," Sheldon concluded.
KKR's position in IPL 2026
So far after seven matches, KKR sit at the bottom of the table with only three points in hand with one win against Rajasthan Royals (RR). The Ajinkya Rahane-led side got one point because of a washed-out game against Punjab Kings at the Eden Gardens.
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