Dwayne Bravo Updates on Matheesha Pathirana's Return Ahead of KKR vs DC Clash
KKR's Preparations for the Upcoming Match
New Delhi [India], May 7: As Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) gear up for their match against Delhi Capitals (DC), mentor Dwayne Bravo provided insights on Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, indicating that he is "close to returning" but emphasized the importance of timing.
After a challenging start to the season, KKR has bounced back with three consecutive victories, while DC is struggling with four straight losses at their home ground, Arun Jaitley Stadium, ahead of their Friday encounter. Pathirana, who recently rejoined the team following an injury, has been a focal point of discussion. Acquired for Rs 18 crores, he has yet to play this season, and his absence has been felt, especially with Indian pacer Harshit Rana also sidelined.
During the pre-match press conference, Bravo stated, "He is very close to playing, but we do not want to rush him due to the nature of his injury. We all want to see him back, but timing is crucial. It's fantastic to have someone of his caliber back in the squad."
For KKR to have a shot at the playoffs, they need to secure victories in their remaining five matches, which would bring their points total to 16, while also hoping for favorable outcomes in other games. Bravo mentioned that the team is not overly concerned about their current standings; instead, they are focused on treating each match as if it were their last.
"We are not overly worried about the table. The coaches have emphasized treating every game like it’s our last and focusing on winning our remaining matches, letting fate handle the rest. Despite a rough start, our last three games have shown improvement and boosted the team's confidence. While results are important, the process remains our priority," he explained.
On the topic of spinner Varun Chakravarthy's resurgence, Bravo expressed that there was never any doubt about his talent and that he simply needed a break.
"In sports, everything is results-driven and emotional. Varun is a world-class spinner who had just come off a demanding World Cup. Sometimes, taking a break at the right moment is essential. Nobody doubted his skills. When you're that talented, it's only a matter of time before you find your form again. The team has supported him throughout," he added.
After a mixed performance in the T20 World Cup, where spinners struggled post-group stage, Varun went wicketless in his first three matches. However, he has since claimed 10 wickets in his last four outings.
Bravo also acknowledged that the batting unit's inconsistency is a concern, contributing to their lower position in the standings.
"Honestly, yes, it is a concern because it plays a part in our current table position. However, it’s not due to a lack of effort. The batters are putting in the work. Sometimes it comes down to shot selection or a bit of luck. The last three games have instilled confidence in the entire team, and once the batting unit clicks, we will be a formidable side," he concluded.
Angkrish Raghuvanshi leads the team with 268 runs in nine matches at an average of 33.50, including three fifties, while Rinku Singh follows closely with 237 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 59.25, also with two fifties. Other key players like skipper Ajinkya Rahane (205 runs in nine innings with a fifty), Cameron Green (199 runs in nine innings with a fifty), Finn Allen (110 runs in six innings), and Tim Seifert (19 runs in three innings) have yet to show the desired consistency.