Ajinkya Rahane Told Not To Bowl Varun Chakravarthy In Powerplay. Irfan Pathan Explains Why

One of the finest bowlers in the shortest format, Varun Chakravarthy’s struggles have continued in the first few matches for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The mystery spinner, who arrived in the T20 league following a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, has leaked 79 runs so far for KKR without claiming a single wicket. Against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday, Chakravarthy was tasked with bowling during the powerplay, a tactical decision that drew significant criticism for KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan expressed his displeasure at Rahane’s choice to introduce an underconfident Chakravarthy so early in the innings, particularly while the Sunrisers’ batters were scoring freely.

“A captain plays a vital role in boosting a bowler’s confidence. If he doesn’t support you at a moment when you feel you can perform better or when you have momentum, that is where leadership is tested. This is why Varun Chakravarthy should not have bowled in the powerplay,” Pathan said during a discussion on ESPNCricinfo.

Pathan believes the decision further hurt Chakravarthy’s self-belief. Although the former all-rounder praised Rahane’s captaincy during the latter stages of the match, he remained disappointed by the initial decision-making.

“You are potentially losing a bowler who should be your trump card and match-winner. By thrusting him into such a high-pressure situation, you make his recovery even harder. While Ajinkya Rahane adjusted well in the second half, he compromised Varun’s rhythm by mismanaging him during those opening overs,” he concluded.

This lack of form is becoming a major concern for KKR, as Chakravarthy’s inability to restrict scoring or provide breakthroughs in the middle innings leaves the bowling attack vulnerable. If the spinner cannot rediscover his elusive “mystery” quickly, the franchise may be forced to reconsider its tactical approach or look to its bench strength to stabilise its defensive efforts.