Key Highlights:
Dwayne Bravo, the mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has openly expressed disappointment in the team’s top-order batting performance, following another defeat in IPL 2025—this time against Gujarat Titans. The West Indian all-rounder didn’t hold back, pointing fingers at Ajinkya Rahane and Sunil Narine for failing to set strong platforms at the start of the innings, which he believes has placed undue pressure on the rest of the batting unit.
Dwayne Bravo’s Frustration Over Repeated Failures at the Top
Speaking after KKR’s fifth loss in eight matches, Bravo emphasized that KKR’s biggest issue this season has been their inability to get solid starts. He highlighted how consistently poor powerplay batting has led to difficult situations for finishers like Andre Russell, who often walks in needing to chase down steep asking rates.
🗣️ “When Russell walks in to bat, the required rate is already 14 or 15. That’s not sustainable. The real problem lies with our top-order not doing enough,” Bravo stated post-match.
He noted that while Russell has had mixed returns this season, the core problem lies higher up the order—where the team continues to falter.
KKR’s Powerplay Blues: Rahane and Narine Under Pressure
In a surprising move this season, KKR has backed Sunil Narine as an opener. While Narine has provided the occasional explosive start, his inconsistency has cost the team momentum more often than not.
Ajinkya Rahane, KKR’s captain and currently their top run-getter with 271 runs from 8 matches, admitted in the post-match presentation that the top-order needed to do better.
🗣️ “We haven’t been getting the starts we need. It’s something we’re definitely looking to fix as a unit,” said Rahane, echoing Bravo’s assessment.
Andre Russell: Scapegoat or Victim of Poor Setup?
Dwayne Bravo also came to the defense of Andre Russell, who has faced criticism for failing to finish games like he once did.
🧠 “Russell is one of the best finishers in IPL history. But if he comes in with 80 needed off 30 balls every time, how can you expect him to perform magic?” Bravo asked.
The all-rounder has been dismissed multiple times by leg-spinners this season, but Bravo insists it’s a symptom of systemic batting issues rather than individual form.
KKR’s Season So Far: A Downward Spiral
KKR’s overall performance in IPL 2025 has been patchy:
- Matches Played: 8
- Wins: 3
- Losses: 5
- Position: 7th on the points table (as of April 18)
- Net Run Rate: Negative
They started the season with two wins but have since lost momentum. The inability to build or chase totals has been at the center of their downfall.
Dwayne Bravo’s Comments Highlight Urgency for Change
Dwayne Bravo’s remarks serve not only as a critique but also as a call to action. With IPL 2025 approaching its mid-point, every match counts for teams chasing playoff spots.
📊 “We’re not out of the race yet, but we have to fix our approach now. Especially with the bat,” Bravo said firmly.
His comments have sparked discussions about possible lineup changes, especially at the top. KKR may soon opt to rotate Narine or bring in a more stable partner for Rahane to ensure better starts.
Looking Ahead: Can KKR Turn Things Around?
KKR will next face Delhi Capitals, and a loss there could be a massive blow to their campaign. With Bravo’s sharp comments out in the open, all eyes will be on whether the team reshuffles the batting order and steps up to match their mentor’s expectations.
KKR’s middle and lower-order talent has never been in doubt—but unless their top order starts clicking, even match-winners like Russell and Rinku Singh will remain underutilized weapons.
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