In a match dominated by Andre Russell’s explosive batting and Riyan Parag’s relentless assault, Varun Chakravarthy’s understated yet crucial performance of 2/32 from four overs flew under the radar. For Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), however, it was a game-changer.
In their recent home games, KKR’s spin duo—Varun and Sunil Narine—had managed just one wicket between them. Varun’s double-wicket over, which saw the dismissals of Dhruv Jurel and Wanindu Hasaranga, proved pivotal in securing KKR’s victory.
Eden Gardens witnessed yet another high-scoring thriller, raising questions about the pitch. Was it the ideal surface for such a contest? “Perfect wicket; today was another close match with over 200 runs. You can’t complain,” Varun remarked at the post-match press conference.
“The pitch definitely improved in the second innings. Only a couple of balls turned for me. Otherwise, there wasn’t much assistance,” he added, before delivering a punchline: “Even on a rank turner at Eden, the score would still hit 200.”
KKR’s spirits were further lifted by Russell’s return to form, a timely boost as every game now feels like a knockout for the team. “Age is just a number,” declared the 37-year-old Jamaican after his blistering 57* off 25 balls. Varun echoed this sentiment, revealing Russell’s long-term ambitions. “From our conversations, he’s keen to play another two or three IPL cycles—that’s six more years. He’s fit and ready, age is irrelevant,” the KKR spinner said.
Varun also paid tribute to Riyan Parag’s stunning innings, which nearly snatched victory from KKR’s grasp. “This has to be one of the best knocks I’ve ever seen,” he admitted.
‘Releasing Buttler Not a Mistake’
For the Rajasthan Royals, it was another heartbreak—their fourth narrow defeat of the season. With just six points from 12 games, their playoff dreams are over. The decision to release Jos Buttler, now excelling for Gujarat Titans, has been heavily scrutinized, especially with Shimron Hetmyer, retained for Rs 11 crore, failing to deliver.
Vikram Rathour, the Royals’ batting coach, defended the move. “I wouldn’t call it a mistake. We could only retain six players, and the management is satisfied with those choices,” he stated at the presser.
Rathour also backed Hetmyer, despite his underwhelming season. “Hatie was meant to be our finisher. Unfortunately, he’s had a tough year, but that happens. He’s a fantastic player who’s delivered in the past. This season just hasn’t gone his way,” he said.
With 216 runs from 11 innings at an average of 21.60, Hetmyer’s struggles have been a glaring issue for the Royals.
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