Aakash Chopra evaluated KKR bowling squad for the upcoming 2023 IPL and provided his thoughts on the available ‘Impact Player’ alternatives. He suggested that the team might consider using Varun Chakravarthy as a substitute in matches played on turning tracks. Although the Kolkata-based franchise has a diverse group of overseas and young players to choose from in their bowling lineup, their batting lineup may face a significant challenge in filling the absence of regular captain Shreyas Iyer. With the new Impact player rule, Chopra proposed that KKR explore using Chakravarthy as a potential substitute.
Chopra “I feel Varun Chakravarthy can also be…..”
“They have options in bowling. You can use either Vaibhav Arora or Kulwant Khejrolia as the Impact Player. If the ball is turning, you can use your spinner as the Impact Player. I feel Varun Chakravarthy can also be the Impact Player because you won’t need his batting. You have two spinners in the form of Varun and Sunil and if you want, you can play Anukul Roy as well. So, this base is covered; you are absolutely fine,” Aakash Chopra shared his views on his YouTube channel.
It’s worth mentioning that the spinner, who is 31 years old, didn’t perform well in 2022. Despite playing in 11 matches, he only managed to take six wickets. His economy rate was on the higher side, ending the season at 8.51.
Iyer to miss, Nitish Rana to lead KKR
Shreyas Iyer’s injury a significant setback for KKR. He is still exploring medical options while recovering from a back injury. As a result, the dynamic batsman is expected to miss the first part of the IPL, prompting KKR to appoint Nitish Rana as their temporary captain for the upcoming season.
In the 2022 season, Rana was the second-highest scorer for the team, accumulating 361 runs in 14 matches. As the team’s leader, he will strive to perform his best and compete for the championship. KKR’s first match of the season is on April 1st against Punjab Kings in Mohali.
