Kolkata: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have reaffirmed their support for Varun Chakravarthy despite his recent struggles on the field. Head coach Abhishek Nayar insisted that the mystery spinner remains a key part of the franchise’s plans and is mentally prepared to overcome the current phase of adversity.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of KKR’s clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Nayar acknowledged Chakravarthy’s dip in form but emphasised that it was a challenge the player has faced before.
“Over the years, he’s gone through a lot of adversity. As a franchise, as a support staff, we back him. I don’t think there’s any issue. But yes, teams are playing him well. It doesn’t mean he can’t come back. It just means it’s another challenge in his life, like he’s had before,” Nayar said.
Recent struggles on display
Chakravarthy’s difficulties have been visible in both the IPL and international outings. He started the IPL campaign against Mumbai Indians conceding 48 runs without picking a wicket, with Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton attacking him freely. In subsequent matches, including the game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, opposition batters targeted him in the middle overs, challenging his control and rhythm.
A closer look at his recent numbers highlights the issue. In the T20 World Cup, Chakravarthy took 14 wickets, finishing joint-highest alongside Jasprit Bumrah, but went at an economy rate of 9.24. His struggles were particularly noticeable against South Africa, where he conceded 47 runs in a heavy defeat.
Changing strategies by opposition
A major factor behind Chakravarthy’s struggles has been the way opposition teams are approaching him. Once considered a bowler difficult to read, teams now proactively target him, especially in the middle overs, aiming to disrupt his momentum.
Nayar pointed out that the expectations on Chakravarthy have also increased following his performances for India. “Everyone always knew Varun Chakravarthy is a terrific bowler, but the expectation has grown because of what he’s done for India. Varun bowls in phases where he’s always going to be challenged. As an opposition, if you’re planning against KKR, you’re going to try and take him down,” he said.
Confidence remains within KKR
Despite the challenges, KKR has continued to use Chakravarthy in high-pressure phases rather than shielding him, trusting his ability to deliver breakthroughs when it matters most. Nayar expressed confidence in the spinner’s mental state and ability to bounce back.
“Yes, he’s accomplished a lot over the past year, which has increased expectations. There will be times when teams succeed and times when they don’t. As a player, he understands that. If he picks up wickets in those phases, he becomes a completely different bowler,” Nayar added.
The KKR camp remains optimistic that Chakravarthy will regain his rhythm and continue to be a crucial weapon for the franchise in the ongoing IPL season.