MS Dhoni interacts with Pollard and Bravo at Wankhede. (Courtesy: PTI)Kunal Patil

Disappointing start to season: CSK fans unhappy after Dwayne Bravo joins KKR

Chennai Super Kings fans were left stunned as Dwayne Bravo, a key figure in their IPL success, joined Kolkata Knight Riders as a mentor.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Dwayne Bravo joins KKR as a mentor after retiring from cricket
  • CSK fans express disbelief and disappointment on social media
  • Dwayne Bravo excited to mentor and nurture new talent at KKR

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans have been left disheartened after Dwayne Bravo, a franchise legend, joined rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as their mentor ahead of IPL 2024. Bravo, a T20 icon and a pivotal figure in CSK's numerous title-winning campaigns, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket following an injury during the 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Just hours after his emotional farewell to the sport, he shocked the cricketing community by signing as KKR's new mentor ahead of the 2025 IPL season. The announcement has not gone down well with sections of CSK's passionate fanbase. Bravo, who had become synonymous with the 'yellow brigade,' was instrumental in CSK's dominance over the last decade, claiming crucial wickets, delivering clutch performances, and even belting match-winning knocks in tight situations.

Social media was soon abuzz with reactions from CSK fans, with many expressing disbelief that one of their legends had crossed over to a rival team in a non-playing role. Another fan wrote: "Bravo deserved a role with CSK after everything he did for the franchise. Seeing him with KKR is heartbreaking."

"DJ Bravo joining us is a very exciting development. His deep desire to win wherever he plays, his extensive experience and knowledge will benefit the franchise and all players immensely. We are also pleased that he will be involved with all our franchises around the world - CPL, MLC and ILT20," KKR CEO Venky Mysore said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Bravo seems thrilled about joining KKR as the next chapter of his cricketing journey. Speaking on his decision to join KKR, Bravo emphasized his admiration for the franchise. "I've been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders in the CPL for the last decade. The Knight Riders family has always been special to me. I'm excited to help nurture the next generation of cricketers."

Bravo also acknowledged the transition from player to mentor and his desire to stay connected to the game: "This is the perfect platform for me as I move into coaching and mentoring. The owners' passion and the professional yet family-like environment make KKR a great place to start."

Bravo replaces Gautam Gambhir, the former KKR captain and mentor, as the franchise looks to rebuild and strengthen its position in the upcoming IPL seasons.

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