KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar has said that his side will not change its approach despite entering the final phase of IPL 2026 needing results to go their way for a playoff spot as well. KKR’s final league clash against Delhi Capitals at Eden Gardens has eventually become a knockout game as well.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Nayar said, “There is always value. Imagine a player scoring a hundred tomorrow. Every game of cricket has value. Everything matters, every number, every victory. You have to understand that everyone who buys a ticket and comes to watch the game tomorrow is coming to watch Kolkata Knight Riders. Every win brings happiness to the city, and the players understand that very well.”
“Our fans care deeply about the franchise. So, it does not matter whether it is a dead rubber or not. The mindset will remain the same, to play the best cricket we can. Every individual in the team is not only representing the franchise but also representing himself. Everyone wants to leave an impression. The attitude will remain unchanged, regardless of the result,” he again added.
Nayar also denied any idea of taking the Delhi Capitals lightly despite their slim playoff chances as well, insisting that every team in the IPL remains dangerous.
“Any opponent in the IPL is a strong opponent. All teams are beautifully balanced. They have the best players in the world, the best Indian players, and young cricketers eager to make a name for themselves,” Nayar said. “So, there is no team in this format, especially in the IPL, that you can say is not strong. Every team is dangerous. Every team wants to perform at the highest level.”
“As I said, our approach has remained very consistent and we want to continue with that. We assess the opposition and try to understand them, but eventually, on the day, the team that plays better cricket usually wins,” he concluded.
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