Dwayne Bravo has officially concluded his illustrious career with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where he achieved four Indian Premier League (IPL) titles in various roles. He joined the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as their new mentor, succeeding Gautam Gambhir, who recently became India’s head coach after guiding the side to their third IPL title. The appointment with KKR came after Bravo announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.
Bravo will work alongside head coach Chandrakant Pandit and bowling coach Bharat Arun at the Kolkata-based franchise. The new role marks Bravo’s second position in team management of an IPL franchise.
After joining CSK in 2011, he retired as a player following the 2022 season and took up the role of bowling coach in 2023. In his debut season as bowling coach, CSK clinched the title, adding to his three championships as a player. He continued as their bowling coach for the 2024 season as well, where CSK finished fifth in the standings.
According to media reports, Bravo had discussions with KKR CEO Venky Mysore during the Carribean Premier League (CPL) before completing a long-term contract. In addition to his responsibilities with KKR, the former West Indies all-rounder will oversee all franchises under the Knight Riders brand in T20 leagues, including Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20).
“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 in a statement.
Following the announcement of Bravo’s move to KKR, fans were left reeling from the news. The 40-year-old, CSK’s all-time leading wicket-taker, has now shared a heartfelt farewell message in a video posted on his social media handles. He expressed deep gratitude to the franchise for the love and support they had poured on him throughout the years.
“Vaṇakkam (Hello in Tamil), this is the Champion. It’s no secret now that the news is out that I’ve accepted a deal to be the mentor for the Knight Riders franchise. Just want to take this time to give a special mention and a special thank you to the CSK management team for me, giving me their blessings to move on to do something that I’m really passionate about. My fans in Chennai and to all the CSK fans around the world, I call on you to give me your blessings and support as you always do,” Bravo was heard saying in the video.
The veteran concluded the video by emphasizing his enduring bond with CSK fans.
“I know this is a sad moment for you guys, but it’s one that I encourage you to continue to support me in everything that I do. Lots of love, Yellove all the time. See you guys soon, see you on the other side!,” he concluded.
Watch Dwyane Bravo’s video on Instagram here:
A post shared by Dwayne Bravo aka SIR Champion🏆🇹🇹 (@djbravo47)