Varun Chakaravarthy Seen on Crutches Ahead of KKR vs RCB Clash, Availability in Doubt

Kolkata Knight Riders spinner Varun Chakaravarthy was spotted walking with crutches and wearing leg braces ahead of the team’s crucial IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 13, raising serious concerns over his fitness and availability.

The visuals quickly went viral among fans, especially given the importance of the upcoming fixture in the playoff race.

Injury Concern After Delhi Capitals Match

The mystery spinner reportedly sustained the injury during KKR’s previous game against Delhi Capitals. Despite visible discomfort, Varun showed remarkable determination by completing his full quota of four overs.

He returned figures of:

• 4 overs
• 28 runs conceded

However, after his spell, he struggled while leaving the field and was eventually substituted out using the IPL’s Impact Player rule, with Finn Allen coming in as his replacement.

KKR Still Alive in Playoff Race

KKR went on to secure an important eight-wicket victory against Delhi Capitals, keeping their playoff hopes alive in a tightly contested season.

But Varun’s injury has now become one of the biggest talking points for the franchise ahead of their high-voltage encounter against RCB.

Ajinkya Rahane Had Earlier Downplayed Concerns

Following the win, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane attempted to ease concerns regarding the spinner’s condition.

However, the latest visuals of Varun on crutches suggest the injury may be more serious than initially believed.

Doubt Over Availability Against RCB

As things stand, KKR have not issued an official medical update. The team management is expected to closely monitor the spinner’s recovery over the next couple of days before taking a final call on his participation.

Given his importance to KKR’s bowling attack, any absence would be a massive blow. Varun has been one of the team’s key wicket-taking options this season, particularly in middle overs.

Possible Replacement Plans

There is also growing discussion around Matheesha Pathirana, who is reportedly nearing full recovery.

KKR mentor Dwayne Bravo recently hinted that the Sri Lankan pacer is close to returning, though no confirmed timeline has been provided.

Interestingly, despite receiving fitness clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket, Pathirana has not yet featured regularly, suggesting KKR may be managing his workload carefully.

If Varun is ruled out, KKR could consider reshuffling the balance of the side, with Pathirana potentially coming in for Rovman Powell to strengthen the bowling department.

Big Blow Before High-Stakes Clash

The upcoming KKR vs RCB match carries enormous playoff implications, making Varun’s fitness situation even more significant.

With both teams fighting for momentum in the final phase of the league stage, KKR will hope their lead spinner recovers in time for what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the season.