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Two major updates have emerged ahead of the blockbuster clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders in Raipur on May 13, with fitness concerns around Krunal Pandya and Varun Chakravarthy grabbing attention ahead of the crucial contest.

As the league stage of Indian Premier League reaches the business end, this game carries huge importance for both teams. Rajat Patidar’s RCB are pushing for a top-two finish, while Ajinkya Rahane’s KKR are still fighting to stay alive in the playoff race.

Krunal Pandya injury concern leaves RCB adjusting before crucial clash

Krunal Pandya played one of the finest knocks of his T20 career in RCB’s previous match against Mumbai Indians. The left-hander scored 73 off 46 balls and guided his side to a thrilling win in difficult conditions.

The experienced all-rounder was visibly struggling during the innings. He has been dealing with severe cramps and a large scar across his stomach during IPL 2026. Despite that, he carried the innings and delivered under pressure.

Fresh concern emerged after the game when Krunal shared a recovery update on social media. He was seen undergoing treatment. At this stage, he is unlikely to play against KKR.


RCB predicted playing XI if Krunal Pandya is ruled out

RCB are likely to bring in Venkatesh Iyer as a replacement to strengthen the middle order. The pace allrounder has the ability to bat in the middle and contribute with some overs on a Raipur surface that helped pacers in previous clash.

Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Venkatesh Iyer, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar

Varun Chakravarthy remains doubtful after injury in previous game

KKR are also dealing with a major concern around Varun Chakravarthy. The mystery spinner suffered a leg injury during the match against Delhi Capitals and looked uncomfortable while bowling in his spells.

Despite the pain, Varun completed his overs and played an important role in KKR’s win. His performances have been central to the team’s four-match winning run.

Shane Watson shares major update on Varun’s fitness

KKR assistant coach Shane Watson admitted that Varun has been struggling physically in recent games.

"Varun Chakravarthy is still being monitored at the moment," Watson said during the pre-match press conference.

"Obviously he’s been sore. In the last two games he was in a lot of pain. Even though he still bowled incredibly well, to see where he started off in the season to where he’s ended up getting to has been incredible to see."

The franchise remains hopeful but with the injury still troubling him, Varun is unlikely to be risked unless he clears a final fitness test.

KKR predicted playing XI if Varun Chakravarthy misses the RCB clash

If Varun is unavailable, KKR are expected to hand the role to Prashant Solanki. He is right arm leg spinner with good domestic record.

Ajinkya Rahane (c), Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Cameron Green, Rovman Powell, Manish Pandey, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Kartik Tyagi, Vaibhav Arora, Prashant Solanki

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