Bravo departs CSK, joins KKR as mentor

MUMBAI, India (CMC):

Just one day after announcing his retirement from all forms of cricket, Dwayne Bravo has made the decision to leave Indian Premier League (IPL) team Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and join the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKK) in a mentorship role.

In his new position, the 41 year-old Bravo will be in charge of all franchises under the Knight Riders label in T20 leagues: Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20).

KKK’s Chief Executive Officer Venky Mysore made the announcement in a statement.

“DJ Bravo joining us is an exciting development. His relentless drive to win, along with his vast experience and deep knowledge, will greatly benefit our franchise and players,” Mysore said.

Bravo will replace Gautam Gambhir, who took over as India’s head coach soon after helping KKR win their third IPL title in 2024.

“I’ve been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in the CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate,” Bravo said in a statement.

“The owners’ passion, the professionalism of the management, and the family-like environment make it a special place. This is the perfect platform for me as I transition from playing to mentoring and coaching the next generation of players.”

His mentorship role will be his second in the IPL.

Bravo joined CSK in 2011, retired from the IPL after the 2022 season, and joined the franchise as bowling coach from the 2023 season.

The Trinidadian had immediate success in his first coaching role, as CSK won the title in 2023, to go with his three titles with them as a player.

Among the best death bowlers in T20 cricket, Bravo is the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history.