New Delhi, May 7: Dwayne Bravo, mentor of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has expressed confidence in Varun Chakravarthy’s return to form, stating that it has significantly benefited the team’s bowling attack. He emphasized that there was never any doubt about Varun’s wicket-taking ability and that a six-day break helped the spinner regain his momentum.
At the season’s start, Varun’s performance was below expectations. He failed to take any wickets in the first three matches and was quite expensive. During this period, KKR struggled in the tournament. However, with Varun’s resurgence, KKR has found its winning ways, securing victories in their last three matches. Varun has taken three wickets in two of those games.
In IPL 2026, Varun has claimed 10 wickets across seven matches, playing a crucial role in KKR’s success. Notably, whenever Varun has taken two or more wickets, the team’s performance has improved. Ahead of the upcoming match against Delhi Capitals, Bravo highlighted the importance of mental and physical rest for players in high-stakes tournaments like the IPL.
He noted that Varun recently returned from the World Cup and that fatigue from continuous cricket is natural. Bravo acknowledged that every player goes through rough patches, but great players always find a way to bounce back. He mentioned that the team management and players fully supported Varun, helping to maintain his confidence.
Bravo also discussed the fitness of fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, stating that he is close to returning but that the team does not want to rush him back. Captain Ajinkya Rahane and the coaching staff will make timely decisions regarding his return to the field.
Additionally, Bravo praised young fast bowler Kartik Tyagi, highlighting his talent and eagerness to learn. He mentioned that Tyagi is working hard in the nets, and the team management is teaching him not only bowling techniques but also match strategies.
Bravo emphasized that he tries to convey to players that it is not enough to just bowl slower balls; they must also understand when and against which batsman to use them. He believes KKR’s young bowling group is hardworking, energetic, and ready to learn, which is why the team is optimistic about delivering strong performances in upcoming matches.
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