IPL 2026 | We now have an understanding of what works for us, says KKR assistant coach Watson

With no wins in its first six games, Kolkata Knight Riders looked to be headed for a fight to avoid the wooden spoon in IPL 2026. But four wins in a row have brought the franchise’s playoff charge back to life.

Ahead of the contest against Royal Challengers Bengaluru here, assistant coach Shane Watson said it was expected that the team would need some bedding-in time after significant changes to its squad from last year.

“It was always going to take a bit of time to work out where everyone was going to fit into the squad, because there was quite a bit of turnover from last season with the players we got at the auction. Now, we’ve got more of an understanding of what really works for us,” Watson said on Tuesday.

Ace spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who has regained his mojo in the second part of the campaign, was seen wearing a protective boot in visuals on social media. Watson said the bowler was playing through some discomfort and is being monitored closely by the team.

“He was a bit sore in the second last game and was in a lot of pain in the last one, even though he’s still bowling incredibly well. We’ve got our fingers crossed that he’ll be available for tomorrow [Wednesday], but we’re just not exactly sure,” the coach explained.

Watson also confirmed that Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana was fit and was not featuring in the playing twelve only due to the already settled overseas combination.