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However, the game scheduled on April 6 between Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings was called off due to rain. Despite not playing the match, both teams released their playing eleven and the outcome of the toss. Varun Chakravarthy, who played a key role in the team, was left out of the squad for the match.

 

Mystery spinner has played a crucial role in the team's past performances. However, everything seems to be going wrong for him this time around. And his absence made people wonder if he had any injury issues.

 

Injury Keeps Varun Out

 

Speaking regarding Varun's absence, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane has mentioned that Varun did not participate in the game due to a niggle, which he sustained while fielding during their game against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

 

It has been reported that Varun is still far from full recovery. Debasis Sen, an Indian journalist, informed that Varun is practicing indoors and wearing a bandage on his left hand. It is not clear how severe the injury is for Varun, but the injury has put him under doubt.

 

This injury has resulted in making Varun a doubtful entity for the next game of KKR, which is against Lucknow Super Giants at Eden Gardens on April 9.

 

Performance Problems Adding up to Issues

 

Along with the injury problem of Varun, his poor form can be counted as another trouble faced by KKR. In the first two games of IPL 2026 season, Varun has failed to get a single wicket.

 

These were also evident in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Here, he conceded 47 runs from deliveries to South Africa but took only one wicket. He gave 39 runs to New Zealand in the last game of the series while taking only one wicket. The recent figures show that batsmen no longer have any problem playing him as he no longer makes them struggle for his variations.

 

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Pressure on KKR Spin Attack

 

The spin unit at KKR is currently performing very poorly. Sunil Narine and Anukul Roy have performed poorly along with Varun.

 

Together, these three bowlers conceded 179 runs to the opponents while keeping an economy of 11.07. These figures are very poor in comparison with the previous season.

 

The KKR spinners of IPL 2025 showed excellent performance. They maintained an economy rate of 7.8 while taking 36 wickets in 13 matches. The two seasons show a distinct difference between them.

 

Narine Could Return

 

KKR received positive news about their lineup despite Varun's expected absence from the upcoming match. Sunil Narine who missed the last game because of illness is expected to come back for this match.

 

His presence can help balance the team particularly when the spin attack is struggling. KKR will be hoping he regains form quickly.

 

Big Test Ahead For KKR

 

KKR now faces a tough situation. The team must find immediate solutions because Varun is unfit and out of form. The match against Lucknow will be very important for them.

 

The break might benefit Varun at this point. A brief rest period will allow him time to heal and practice his bowling technique.

 

KKRfans will be hoping their main spinner makes a strong return to help the team achieve success.