IPL 2026: Why Varun Chakaravarthy is not playing in KKR’s crucial clash vs RCB
Kolkata Knight Riders face a significant blow as star spinner Varun Chakaravarthy is ruled out of their IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru due to an injury sustained in the previous match. Uncapped pacer Saurabh Dubey makes his IPL debut as KKR navigates this crucial encounter without their key bowler, who has been instrumental in their recent resurgence.
Kolkata Knight Riders have suffered a major setback in their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with star spinner Varun Chakaravarthy ruled out after picking up an injury in the previous game against Delhi Capitals. The mystery spinner was seen limping ahead of the match in Raipur while having a conversation with debutant Saurabh Dubey during the warm-up, strongly hinting at fitness concerns before the toss confirmed his absence from the playing XI. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane later revealed that Varun was unavailable for selection, with uncapped pacer Saurabh Dubey coming into the side for his IPL debut.
"Last four games have been good for us. For us it's taking one game at a time. It's about respecting the opponents, and winning those small moments.
This format is all about that, winning those small moments is important. Varun is out, Saurabh comes in for him," Rahane said at the toss. Varun’s absence comes as a massive blow for Kolkata Knight Riders, especially considering the spinner’s role in the team’s remarkable turnaround this season.
After losing five of their first six matches, KKR bounced back strongly and entered this fixture unbeaten in their previous four games, keeping their playoff hopes alive. The spinner had been central to that revival with his control and wicket-taking ability through the middle overs. However, concerns around his fitness emerged during the previous match against Delhi Capitals when he appeared uncomfortable on the field.