Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Shane Watson has given an update on Varun Chakravarthy’s injury ahead of the franchise’s must-win game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 13. The mystery spinner, who was seen wearing knee braces and using crutches after KKR’s previous match against Delhi Capitals, has raised concerns about his availability.
KKR are fighting to keep their IPL playoff hopes alive, Chakravarthy’s fitness could be key given his resurgence after a rough start to the season.
“Varun Chakravarthy is still being monitored at the moment,” Watson said ahead of the clash against RCB in Raipur. “Obviously it hurt him. He’s been in a lot of pain the last two games. Even though he’s still bowled incredibly well, it’s been incredible to see where he’s started the season to where he’s gotten.”
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Watson added that the franchise remains hopeful about the spinner’s availability but is yet to make a final call. “We’re just monitoring him at the moment. Fingers crossed that he’ll be available tomorrow, but we’re still not entirely sure,” he said.
After going wicketless in KKR’s first three matches of the season, Chakravarthy bounced back strongly by taking 10 wickets in the next four games. His turnaround played a major role in reviving KKR’s campaign, including a match-winning three-wicket spell against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
KKR have dramatically revived their season after a disastrous start in which they lost six games. The defending champions have since won four games in a row to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
Ajinkya Rahane lost as captain again. He didn’t have a plan for the injured Varun Chakravarthy and made him bowl last and that happened by runs.
pic.twitter.com/OD2jKXI7QR— Arreo Sambha (@NonPlyingChar) May 8, 2026
Watson said the team remains focused on maintaining consistency rather than looking too far ahead. “History in the IPL has shown that teams can bounce back from bad starts,” he said. “We definitely know it’s possible. But the most important thing is to continue to put together complete performances like we did against Delhi Capitals.”
Watson also reported on Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathiran, who is yet to cement a regular place in the playing eleven despite being fit and available.
“He’s continuing to make his case. He’s fit and ready to go,” Watson said. He added that Pathirana remains fit and available for selection, but the current balance and combination of the side makes it difficult for the Sri Lankan pacer to break into the playing eleven. However, Watson believes that having a bowler of Pathirana’s quality ready on the bench will give the entire team more confidence and bolster KKR’s depth going into key matches.
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Published on:
12 May 2026 18:14 IST
