Wednesday’s match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru sees Kolkata Knight Riders worried about Varun Chakravarthy’s fitness. This game marks their 11th meeting in IPL 2026, set under the lights at Raipur’s stadium. Form had returned for Chakravarthy lately, a shift from his struggles during the T20 World Cup 2026 knockouts. His recent performances hinted at stability before the current setback emerged. Uncertainty lingers around his availability just days before the showdown begins.
Trouble looms for KKR as Chakravarthy might miss the game versus RCB. A leg issue struck him while bowling in Delhi, under floodlights, facing the Capitals. Grimacing between deliveries, he limped off slowly once replaced. His exit left fans watching closely, unsure of what comes next.
Fresh trouble emerged when staff spotted the spinner moving through the team hotel on a cane just before Kolkata faced the title holders in Raipur.
Shane Watson drops update on Varun, confirms he is doubtful
For now, Varun Chakravarthy remains under observation. Though not cleared yet, there’s quiet optimism he might face RCB. KKR’s assistant coach, Shane Watson, shared the latest before the match began. He spoke about the spinner, noting progress but no guarantees. Hope lingers around his availability, nothing firm just yet.
“Obviously he’s been sore. In the last two games he was in a lot of pain. Even though he still bowled incredibly well, to see where he started off in the season to where he’s ended up getting to has been incredible to see,” he added.
Watson Talks About Pathirana
The former Australia all-rounder also spoke on Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, who joined the squad in mid-April but has not played a single game so far. “Pathirana continues to push his case. He’s fit and ready to go. But, with the way our team’s been set up, it’s been hard for him to get into the playing 11 or 12. To be able to know that a player of that calibre is ready to make his mark gives our group a lot of confidence,” he said.
KKR look for fifth straight win
Out of nowhere, things started clicking for the Knight Riders despite an awful start in IPL 2026 – only one point from six games, thanks to rain stopping play versus Punjab Kings. Still, momentum shifted quietly when they strung together four victories back-to-back, nudging hopes higher without making noise about it.
