IPL 2025: Dwayne Bravo to instill 'champion mentality' at KKR
What's the story
Dwayne Bravo, the newly appointed mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), is all set to bring a 'champion mentality' into the franchise in IPL 2025.
This will be Bravo's first season with KKR after he replaced Gautam Gambhir.
The West Indian all-rounder has promised that passion will be the key to KKR's success in the upcoming season.
Here's what he said.
Future plans
Bravo's vision for KKR's future
Bravo, who has won three IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings, shared his vision for KKR at the 'Knights Unplugged 2.0' event.
"I'd like to bring in the champion mentality. I believe in winning... The key to success is passion for the game," he said.
Notably, Bravo said most of the players from last year's championship-winning team are still part of this year's squad, and they already know how to win championships.
Legacy
Bravo's commitment to KKR's legacy
Bravo said he was excited to join KKR, a team he respects a lot.
He said, "KKR is a team hugely respected worldwide... The decision to join was an easy one. I want to continue the legacy and ensure KKR remains a household name around the world."
Although Shreyas Iyer has been replaced by Ajinkya Rahane as captain, the core of KKR's squad, including 9-10 players from last year's championship-winning team, remains largely the same.
Coach's praise
Coach Pandit praises Bravo's contribution to KKR
KKR's head coach, Chandrakant Pandit, has also recognized Bravo's potential contribution to the team.
Despite their contrasting coaching styles - Pandit being a strict taskmaster and Bravo taking a more relaxed approach - Pandit was confident about their collaboration.
He called Bravo a legend who brings immense value not just in terms of tactics but also in creating a winning culture within the team.
Season opener
KKR's IPL 2025 campaign begins against RCB
KKR's new mentor, Bravo, and captain, Ajinkya Rahane, are all set to lead the team in their IPL 2025 campaign.
The season opener is scheduled against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens on March 22.
Rahane emphasized the team's unity and simplicity, stating that everyone is on the same page and they have a good team for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.