IPL 2026: Doubts over Varun; Matheesha unlikely for must-win game against Mumbai Indians

 

 

Varun Chakravarthy at Eden Gardens. Image: Debasis Sen

Debasis Sen at Eden Gardens

Kolkata Knight Riders’ ace spinner Varun Chakravarthy is doubtful for the must-win IPL 2026 clash against Mumbai Indians at Eden Gardens on Wednesday. The mystery spinner suffered a hairline fracture to his toe and had to miss the game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Although he returned for the match against Gujarat Titans despite not being fully fit, his availability for the MI fixture remains uncertain. On Tuesday, Varun was seen bowling a few deliveries behind the sight-screen but appeared uncomfortable, raising serious concerns about whether he will play.

Meanwhile, Matheesha Pathirana is also likely to miss the game after suffering a hamstring injury during his debut appearance for KKR against GT. The Sri Lankan pacer did not take part in either of the training sessions ahead of Wednesday’s match. Pathirana walked off the field after bowling just eight deliveries on Sunday night. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, KKR all-rounder Anukul Roy said that the medical staff are still assessing Pathirana’s condition.

Pathirana. Image: Debasis Sen

If Pathirana is ruled out, KKR could replace him with either Rovman Powell or Blessing Muzarabani, who has not played since KKR’s second game of the season on April 2.

Following Rajasthan Royals’ victory over Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, KKR must now win both of their remaining matches against MI and Delhi Capitals. Even then, they will still depend on the outcomes of other matches involving Rajasthan and Punjab Kings to qualify for the playoffs. ‘If Rajasthan win their final league match against MI, they will secure a playoff spot ahead of both KKR and PBKS.

KKR’s late resurgence was driven largely by Sunil Narine’s clinical performance with the ball. The Trinidadian spinner was spotted in a lengthy discussion with CEO Venky Mysore at Eden Gardens on Tuesday. The three-time champions will once again pin their hopes on Narine, along with Finn Allen and Cameron Green, both of whom have found form in recent matches.

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