In a major shift in the Indian Premier League (IPL) landscape, former West Indies allrounder Dwayne Bravo has announced his departure from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and signed on with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a mentor ahead of the 2025 season.
The move marks the end of Bravo’s legendary association with CSK, where he played a key role in winning four IPL titles, both as a player and a coach. His new position with KKR also involves overseeing the team’s global franchises in other T20 leagues, reflecting his growing influence in the world of cricket management.
End of an Era at CSK
Dwayne Bravo’s departure from Chennai Super Kings brings to a close a significant chapter in both his career and the franchise’s history. Having joined CSK in 2011, Bravo became a cornerstone of the team, known for his ability to perform under pressure with both bat and ball.
His contributions, particularly in the death overs, helped CSK secure three IPL titles during his time as a player. Bravo retired from playing in the IPL after the 2022 season and immediately transitioned into the role of CSK’s bowling coach. In his first season as a coach in 2023, CSK won another title, making him instrumental in the franchise’s continued success.
Bravo’s career with CSK was defined not just by individual accolades, such as winning two Purple Caps, but by his ability to guide his team through crucial moments. His tactical brilliance, combined with his motivational skills, earned him a lasting legacy at the franchise.
New Beginning at KKR
Bravo’s new role as mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders marks the start of a fresh chapter in his illustrious career. According to reports, Bravo met KKR CEO Venky Mysore during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and agreed to a long-term deal that extends beyond just IPL duties. Bravo will also mentor other franchises under the Knight Riders umbrella, including Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (Major League Cricket), and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20). This widespread responsibility shows the franchise’s faith in Bravo’s leadership and vision.
“DJ Bravo joining us is an exciting development,” said Venky Mysore. “His relentless drive to win, along with his vast experience and deep knowledge, will greatly benefit our franchise and players.“
Bravo replaces Gautam Gambhir, who took over as India’s head coach after helping KKR win their third IPL title in 2024. Gambhir’s departure, along with assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, opened a vacuum in KKR’s support staff, which Bravo is expected to fill with his vast experience. He will work alongside head coach Chandrakant Pandit and bowling coach Bharat Arun.
A Transition from Player to Mentor
At 41, Bravo has officially retired from all forms of cricket, ending a storied career that spanned more than two decades. Reflecting on his new role, Bravo stated, “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. 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.”
With over 500 T20 matches under his belt, Bravo brings unmatched experience to his mentoring role. His journey as a tactician and motivator began long before this transition. He captained the West Indies and later played a key role as a consultant coach for Afghanistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he helped the team reach the semi-finals for the first time in their history.
Bravo’s Legacy in T20 Cricket
One of the most respected figures in T20 cricket, Bravo’s impact goes far beyond his statistics. He is the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, known for his devastating yorkers and pinpoint accuracy in the death overs. He was the first player to win two Purple Caps, solidifying his status as one of the best bowlers in the history of the tournament.
His leadership qualities, honed during his time as West Indies captain, have now become his most valuable asset as he shifts to coaching and mentoring roles. His vast knowledge of the game, coupled with his ability to inspire players, makes him the ideal figure to guide young talent.
The Road Ahead for KKR
Bravo’s addition to the KKR setup comes at a crucial time for the franchise. Having recently won their third IPL title, KKR will be looking to build on that success with a strong team management unit in place. The departure of key figures like Gautam Gambhir and Abhishek Nayar left a void, but Bravo’s arrival brings fresh energy and a winning mindset.
Bravo’s influence will not be limited to IPL alone. His role with the other Knight Riders franchises will give him a global stage to showcase his leadership and mentoring skills. With teams like Trinbago Knight Riders and Los Angeles Knight Riders under his watch, Bravo’s expertise will be crucial in shaping the next generation of T20 cricketers.
Dwayne Bravo’s move to Kolkata Knight Riders signals the end of an era at Chennai Super Kings but marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his career. As he takes on the responsibility of mentoring not just KKR but the global Knight Riders franchises, Bravo will look to impart his vast knowledge and winning mentality to the next wave of cricketers. KKR fans, as well as cricket enthusiasts worldwide, can expect Bravo to leave a lasting impact, both on and off the field, in this new role.
