Kolkata, May 23 (H.S.): With the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) facing a must-win situation in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has insisted that the team remains focused on playing quality cricket rather than obsessing over outcomes ahead of their crucial clash against the Delhi Capitals.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s encounter at Eden Gardens, Nayar said the side is concentrating only on factors within its control.

“We can only control our preparation and the quality of cricket we play. The results are not entirely in our hands. When you represent a franchise in a tournament as big as the IPL, every match carries significance,” Nayar stated.

KKR’s playoff hopes are also dependent on results involving other teams, but Nayar emphasized that the squad’s primary focus remains its own performances. He added that despite a difficult start to the campaign, the team has maintained composure and consistency.

“In challenging times, the leadership group’s biggest responsibility is to stand firmly behind the players. We never lost faith in them. We worked hard to create an environment where players feel secure and confident,” he said.

KKR have suffered a major setback with their leading run-scorer Angkrish Raghuvanshi being ruled out of the tournament due to injury. Nayar admitted that replacing his contribution would not be easy.

“Angkrish was not only crucial with the bat but also extremely valuable behind the stumps. However, the IPL is a tournament of opportunities. Now it is a chance for another player to step up,” he remarked.

Nayar also praised spinner Varun Chakaravarthy for his commitment and resilience throughout the season, revealing that the mystery spinner continued to play despite multiple injuries.

“He has played this season despite injuries to two fingers and his foot. That reflects the immense love and commitment he has for the team and the franchise,” Nayar said.

Although KKR’s fixture could become inconsequential depending on the result involving the Rajasthan Royals, Nayar asserted that the team would not take the match lightly under any circumstances.

“Every game matters. The fans who buy tickets and come to the stadium want to see KKR win. Whether the match is decisive or not, our attitude will remain unchanged,” he added.

Nayar also warned against underestimating the Delhi Capitals, stressing that no team in the IPL can be considered weak.

“Players like Mitchell Starc, Lungi Ngidi, and their batting lineup can turn a game around at any moment. Every team in the IPL is strong, and we will have to play our best cricket,” he concluded.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar