The current Indian Premier League (IPL) season has not been ideal for defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Last year, under the mentorship of Gautam Gambhir, the Knights clinched their third IPL title. However, following that success, Gambhir transitioned to a bigger role, taking charge as the head coach of India’s men’s national team.
In his place, KKR roped in former West Indies all-rounder and Chennai Super Kings’ death-overs specialist, Dwayne Bravo, as the new mentor. Chandrakant Pandit, meanwhile, continues as the head coach.
Every successful team needs a strong character at the helm — someone who steps up during adversity, lifts the morale of the group, and brings infectious energy. Body language is crucial in any sport, and T20 cricket, especially in the world’s most competitive league, demands it even more.
We witnessed a prime example recently when 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed a sensational 35-ball century for Rajasthan Royals (RR) against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Monday night. Rahul Dravid’s exuberant celebration after the knock — so unlike the typically composed former India stalwart — showed the level of passion and aggression necessary in high-pressure moments. Similarly, Ashish Nehra’s hands-on approach — taking notes, constantly communicating with players, and sending tactical instructions — has often been credited for GT’s success.
While KKR’s batting has been a major letdown, their bowling has also failed to deliver, particularly in the powerplay. In 10 matches, KKR bowlers have taken just seven powerplay wickets.
✍️ @CricSubhayan https://t.co/UJ0vz5z8Mi
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) April 29, 2025
This sort of visible, spirited leadership seems missing this season from the KKR dugout. Pandit, although a successful coach in Indian domestic cricket, perhaps lacks the aggressive and dynamic style now essential in modern T20 cricket.
On a personal note, there was an interesting observation during the KKR versus Sunrisers Hyderabad clash at Eden Gardens. While attending the game, my senior colleague Trisha Ghosal pointed it out and we discussed at length how Bravo stood out during KKR’s bowling innings. Bravo was visibly active — engaging constantly with fielders near the boundary, offering instructions during strategic timeouts, and maintaining an energetic presence. His involvement and communication were refreshing and pointed to what the team currently lacks: a vibrant, inspiring figure rallying the players.
When Bravo recently mentioned that the KKR batters seem low on confidence, it underscored an important truth. It falls upon the team management — particularly the head coach and mentor — to instill belief and resilience in the players. As KKR prepare for a must-win game against Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, this becomes even more critical.
With only 7 points from 9 matches, the Knights are precariously placed. A defeat would all but end their playoff hopes. Leadership, body language, and the ability to inspire under pressure could be the difference between survival and an early exit.
A mid-season sacking of the head coach is unlikely. But Chandrakant Pandit probably has five games to save his job. If a turnaround doesn’t happen, will KKR sound out Eoin Morgan? Abhishek Nayar, too, remains an option.@shamik100 writes.#IPL2025 #KKR https://t.co/LKyjWAczkt
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) April 28, 2025