IPL 2025: Varun Chakravarthy Confident as KKR Begin Title Defence Against RCB

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up to defend their IPL title, and star spinner Varun Chakravarthy believes the team is well-equipped to replicate last season's success.

Despite changes in captaincy and coaching staff, Varun remains confident that KKR can start afresh and make a strong impact in IPL 2025. This report is based on information sourced from ESPNcricinfo.

"We will look to defend [the title] and we have a great squad and great batsmen too," Varun said ahead of KKR's opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Kolkata. "We have added Quinton de Kock, Anrich Nortje, Spencer Johnson, Moeen Ali and Roman Powell, and we have a great international core this time."

While KKR dominated in several matches last season, they also suffered heavy defeats. Varun acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the IPL, stating, "If you saw last year, we had huge victories and huge losses also in certain matches. Every match is different in the IPL. As experts say, you have to take it as a new tournament and start from scratch."

Varun's Plan for Kohli and RCB

As KKR prepare to take on RCB, Varun is particularly excited about facing Virat Kohli. Having bowled 39 deliveries to Kohli across seven innings and conceding only 40 runs while dismissing him once, Varun is eager to improve his record against the star batter.

"I've done just the same preparation I did last year," Varun said. "Definitely excited to be coming up against Virat bhai. Obviously, he has batted well against me and I would want to do well against him."

He also emphasised that RCB remain a formidable opponent, despite their mixed performances in recent seasons. "Anyone at this level, you cannot think of it as an easy opposition. Every team in the IPL is as good as the other one. RCB have a quality team, but we have done our homework. I have done my homework too."

New Tricks in Store

Varun, who finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in IPL 2024, hinted that he has some new variations in his arsenal but remained tight-lipped about specifics. "Whenever I play some domestic, I try to work something new. Every year I try to bowl something new," he said. "Last year it worked out, in seasons before that it didn't. Obviously, I have a few balls up my sleeve, but it will depend on other factors also."

The leg-spinner believes that success does not solely come from variations but rather from the way they are executed. "Basically, the ball can deviate in three ways: left, right or straight. So how I choose those balls, the sequencing of it - that's where the tactical side of the game comes, and that's what I'm working on."

Flexible Role Under New Captain

KKR's leadership change has also brought discussions about Varun's role within the team. Having bowled across all phases of the innings in previous seasons, he is prepared for any challenge. "Whenever my captain wants me to bowl, I am ready for it. I have bowled in the powerplay, middle and death also. We have a new captain this time and he has spoken to me about where I can be most effective. I have also conveyed that to him."

Excited to Reunite with Narine

Varun is particularly looking forward to rekindling his partnership with Sunil Narine, with whom he combined for 38 wickets last season. "I don't have to compliment him," Varun said. "He is a legend of the game. One of the greats of the game. He was the MVP last year also."

The duo's chemistry on the field has been one of KKR's biggest strengths, and Varun is confident that Narine is ready for another strong season. "We've had a little conversation this year, and he looks very well prepared. He looks ready to take on the IPL just like how he did last year. I'm very excited to see him go this year also. Whatever he does, I just look at that and I try to imbibe whatever he does here."

As KKR take on RCB in the IPL 2025 opener, all eyes will be on Varun and his ability to execute his plans. With fresh strategies and a strong squad, KKR are determined to begin their title defence on a winning note.