Varun Chakaravarthy Likely Return? Aakash Chopra Gives Key Injury Update Before CSK vs KKR

Aakash Chopra revealed Varun Chakaravarthy may be recovering from a hairline fracture ahead of CSK vs KKR, though he has resumed bowling.

Ahead of the match against the CSK, cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra highlighted key fitness concerns in the KKR camp.

He confirmed that Matheesha Pathirana, signed for INR 18 crore, has received clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket but will miss this match. Chopra added that KKR continue to struggle with player availability.

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Varun Chakaravarthy has resumed bowling in the nets, but his hand remains bandaged. Chopra said the spinner is recovering from a hairline fracture. He noted that Chakaravarthy could return to the XI if fit and replace Anukul Roy.

“Pathirana is fit but not available. He has got the fitness certificate, but is unavailable for this match. It would have been great had Pathirana come as he had played for Chennai only, and could have played against them now, but KKR’s problems are not ending,” Chopra said in a video shared on his YouTube channel.

“They are a team that is still searching for a win. Varun Chakaravarthy has started bowling, that’s good news, but his hand is still bandaged. Hairline fracture is what I have heard. He is from Chennai only. Even though his current form is not great, you feel he would do better if he plays. If he is available, you might see him playing in place of Anukul Roy,” he added.

Kolkata Knight Riders aim for their first win in IPL 2026 when they face Chennai Super Kings on April 14 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.