Kolkata Knight Riders retained Varun CV for INR 8 Cr before IPL 2022 mega-auctions. However, in eight games, the mystery spinner was able to take only four wickets at an average of 61. He was later dropped from the XI. Considering the player’s form, fitness, and huge salary, it would not be a surprise if KKR releases the player. A few other teams might be interested in his services for IPL 2023. In this article, we take a look at three teams that should target Varun CV for IPL 2023 if he gets released by KKR.
1) Royal Challengers Bangalore
RCB had formed a good spin attack comprising Wanindu Hasaranga, Shahbaz Ahmed and Glenn Maxwell for IPL 2022. Shahbaz and Maxwell have done well in their limited roles but although he has taken wickets, Hasaranga has not created the impact that he was expected to. He is missing his lines and lengths too often and hence, he is going for a lot of runs.
The Sri Lankan takes a salary of over INR 10 Cr and RCB might as well release him to the auctions. In that case, they can target Varun to lead the spin attack. With Dinesh Karthik behind the stumps, Varun can rediscover his old touch. On the flipside, RCB might target Wanindu again, but at a lower price.
2) Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians is one of the teams that should target Varun CV for IPL 2023 if he gets released by KKR. MI did not have a single reliable spinner after the auctions. The likes of Murugan Ashwin have failed so far. Hence, there is scope for a new spinner in the team.
Kumar Karthikeya has shown promise and if Varun can be paired with the youngster, MI might have a good spin attack in their ranks. Hence, the five-time champions could target the player.
3) Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings has used Rahul Chahar in all the games so far. However, the leggie has not left a big impression. While he will be backed to come good, PBKS might think of giving the youngster a good partner.
Varun’s first IPL team was actually Punjab Kings. It may not be a surprise if the franchise goes back in for the player again. This way, Punjab can have a more complete spin attack for IPL 2023.
