'Varun Chakravarthy's absence will be a big plus for RCB': Mohammad Kaif ahead of RCB vs KKR IPL 2026 clash

The stage is set for the crucial IPL 2026 showdown between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) which will be played at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, New Raipur on May 13.

If Varun Chakaravarthy is not available, it is a big plus for RCB: Kaif

Meanwhile, right before the crunch clash, former India's star batter Mohammed Kaif noted that the potential absence of spinner Varun Chakravarthy could be a "big plus" for the defending champions. RCB enters the match aiming to build on the momentum of their thrilling two-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians. They face a KKR side that has staged a remarkable comeback, winning four consecutive matches to reignite their playoff hopes after a dismal six-match winless streak.

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A pivotal factor in KKR’s resurgence has been Chakravarthy’s return to form. After going wicketless in his first three games, the spinner found his rhythm to claim 10 wickets in his last five outings. This resurgence follows a fluctuating T20 World Cup campaign where, despite finishing as the top wicket-taker with 14 scalps, he struggled during the business end of the tournament, taking only five wickets from the Super Eight stage through to the final while conceding significant runs.

Uncertainty over Varun Chakaravarthy ahead of RCB vs KKR clash

However, Chakravarthy’s availability for this clash remains uncertain due to fitness concerns. After appearing to sustain an injury while fielding against Sunrisers Hyderabad and visibly limping against Delhi Capitals, his status is currently 'under the scanner'. Meanwhile, right ahead of the match, KKR assistant coach Shane Watson confirmed the spinner is feeling "sore" and is being closely monitored by the medical team.

"He has come back into form recently. He was doing well and hitting the right areas. Virat Kohli is someone who loves to play against faster spin bowlers," Kaif said on JioStar's 'Match Centre Live'.

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Kaif further emphasized that KKR will be desperate to have Varun in the lineup to maintain their preferred tactical blueprint. The team has long relied on a specific bowling template consisting of two specialist pacers, one all-rounder, and a trio of spinners to control the game. Losing Chakravarthy would disrupt this established balance, forcing the management to rethink a strategy that has been central to their recent success. KKR's hope is that their star spinner recovers in time to preserve this effective three-prong spin attack.

"Anukul Roy is doing a wonderful job for them in the Powerplay. That gives them the cushion of using Sunil Narine a little later so that he can control the middle over phase," Kaif concluded.