Dwayne Bravo appointed as KKR mentor for IPL 2025; parts ways as CSK bowling coach
Former West Indian all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has been appointed the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor for IPL 2025. The franchise announced the news on social media on Friday, September 27.
Bravo was the bowling coach for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) over the last two IPL editions but. CSK couldn't qualify for the playoffs this year after winning the title in 2023. Meanwhile, KKR won their third IPL title in 2024, with former captain Gautam Gambhir as the team mentor.
However, with Gambhir taking over as Team India's head coach, the franchise hired IPL legend Dwayne Bravo for the role.
KKR CEO Venky Mysore said in a statement as quoted by ESPNcricinfo:
"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 also expressed his delight at being associated with the Knight Riders label and said in a statement:
"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."
Apart from KKR, Bravo will also take charge of the other franchises under the Knight Riders in the T20 Leagues worldwide - Trinbago Knight Riders, Los Angeles Knight Riders, and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
The 41-year-old has enjoyed tremendous success in the IPL, winning three titles as a player with CSK and then helping the franchise win the 2023 IPL as the bowling coach.
Bravo remains the third-leading wicket-taker in the IPL with 183 scalps in 161 matches, including two Purple Caps in 2013 and 2015.
Dwayne Bravo recently retired from all forms of cricket
Dwayne Bravo announced his retirement from all forms of cricket a day before he was appointed KKR mentor.
He announced before the ongoing Caribbean Premier League (CPL) on this being his final season. However, a groin injury sustained while fielding in one of the recent games has brought a premature end to his illustrious playing career.
Bravo was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz:
"Twenty-one years as a professional cricketer - it's been an incredible journey, filled with many highs and a few lows. Most importantly, I was able to live my dream because I gave you 100 (per cent) at every step. As much as I'd love to continue this relationship, it's time to face reality."
"My mind wants to keep going, but my body can no longer endure the pain, the breakdowns, and the strain. I can't put myself in a position where I might let down my teammates, my fans, or the teams I represent. So, with a heavy heart, I officially announce my retirement from the sport. Today, the Champion bids farewell," he added.
Bravo finishes as the all-time leading wicket-taker in T20s with 631 scalps in 582 outings.