Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as one of the most successful players for Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing IPL 2026, but a new viral video is causing fans to worry about his fitness again. The mysterious bowler, who has picked up 10 wickets in eight games and is finally finding his form after being off-colour initially, was spotted walking around with a protective leg strap and crutches at the team’s hotel in Delhi. This came days after he could be seen limping following KKR’s eight-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals. As KKR continues its fight to qualify for the playoffs, all eyes are now wondering whether Chakravarthy can make the rest of the season.

All of this started following KKR’s eight-wicket triumph over Delhi Capitals in their game at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on May 8. Chakravarthy appeared to be struggling while bowling his final over and had trouble with his run-up. Nonetheless, the right-arm off-break bowler completed his spell by conceding figures of 4-0-28-0, which included 16 runs in his last over.

KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane played down the scare after the match against DC, as he said, “He’s fine. As long as Varun is bowling, he’s happy. When he’s fielding, he just wants to go inside. But he’s fine. He’s absolutely fine. One game at a time.”

Varun Chakravarthy Already Missed Three Matches

This is not the first injury concern for Chakravarthy this season. He had earlier missed three matches because of a foot injury. Reports also noted that he played through wrist fractures during the early phase of the tournament.

Even with those setbacks, he has produced a strong turnaround. After going wicketless in his first three appearances, the spinner bounced back with impactful spells against teams like Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad. His current tally stands at 10 wickets from eight matches at an average of 25 and an economy rate of 8.62.

KKR’s IPL 2026 Playoff Qualification Chances

The fitness of Chakravarthy is important because KKR cannot allow any misstep. As the defending champions, KKR have 9 points from 10 games, winning four and having one no result. The team is ranked seventh on the IPL 2026 standings.

To maintain their position, KKR will most probably require winning three out of their four remaining games. They will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their next match, which will take place on May 13 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur.

There is currently no news on whether Chakravarthy will sit out for the remainder of IPL 2026. From the statement made by Rahane, it looks like there won’t be much trouble. Still, the viral video has added uncertainty at a time when KKR need their lead spinner more than ever.