Bravo switches to KKR as mentor in IPL 2025

Former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has concluded his illustrious journey with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), a franchise with which he won four IPL titles. Bravo will now transition to a mentorship role at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) from the 2025 season, marking the next chapter in his cricketing career.

Bravo bids farewell to CSK, joins KKR as mentor

Dwayne Bravo, who turns 41 in October, has officially joined KKR as a mentor for IPL 2025, replacing Gautam Gambhir, who recently took over as India’s head coach. This change follows Gambhir’s leadership in helping KKR secure their third IPL title. Bravo’s move was confirmed soon after his retirement from all forms of cricket, including T20 leagues, which he announced a day prior to his appointment.

The move comes after Bravo’s meeting with KKR CEO Venky Mysore during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), where they finalized a long-term agreement. In addition to his role with KKR, Bravo will oversee all Knight Riders franchises in other T20 leagues, including Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20).

Venky Mysore expressed his excitement about Bravo’s arrival: “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.”

Bravo’s transition from player to coach

Dwayne Bravo, who was part of CSK’s iconic squad, enjoyed a successful stint with the franchise after joining them in 2011. He retired from playing in the IPL after the 2022 season but stayed with CSK, transitioning to their bowling coach for the 2023 season. His impact was immediate, as CSK clinched their fifth IPL title that year, defeating defending champions Gujarat Titans.

Bravo has an illustrious T20 career, being the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history and the only player to win the Purple Cap twice. His experience in the game, especially as a death bowler, made him a crucial player and, later, an astute tactician.

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“I’ve been part of Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate,” said Bravo. “This is the perfect platform for me as I transition from playing to mentoring and coaching the next generation of players.”

Bravo’s coaching journey has been on a steady rise, with him recently serving as a consultant coach for Afghanistan during the 2024 T20 World Cup, where the team made history by reaching the semi-finals. With this next step at KKR, Bravo aims to share his expertise and guide players across the Knight Riders’ T20 franchises globally.