<p>New Delhi: India batter Ajinkya Rahane will captain defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in the <a href="https://www.deccanherald.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> beginning on March 22, the franchise announced on Monday.</p><p>Rahane replaces Shreyas Iyer as the skipper with the latter tasked to lead Punjab Kings this season.</p><p>Venkatesh Iyer, who has been with KKR for a long time, has been made Rahane's deputy.</p>.Ajinkya Rahane, ageing like fine wine .<p>"It’s an honour to be asked to lead KKR, which has been one of the most successful franchises in the IPL. I think we have an excellent and balanced squad. I look forward to working with everyone and taking up the challenge of defending our title,” said Rahane in a statement.</p><p>Defending champions KKR will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL opener at the Eden Gardens on March 22.</p>
<p>New Delhi: India batter Ajinkya Rahane will captain defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in the <a href="https://www.deccanherald.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> beginning on March 22, the franchise announced on Monday.</p><p>Rahane replaces Shreyas Iyer as the skipper with the latter tasked to lead Punjab Kings this season.</p><p>Venkatesh Iyer, who has been with KKR for a long time, has been made Rahane's deputy.</p>.Ajinkya Rahane, ageing like fine wine .<p>"It’s an honour to be asked to lead KKR, which has been one of the most successful franchises in the IPL. I think we have an excellent and balanced squad. I look forward to working with everyone and taking up the challenge of defending our title,” said Rahane in a statement.</p><p>Defending champions KKR will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL opener at the Eden Gardens on March 22.</p>