Former Indian batsman Ambati Rayudu has boldly claimed that “mystery spinners” are overrated as he indirectly launched a scathing attack on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) spinner Varun Chakravarthy for his flop performance so far in the ongoing IPL 2026.
Mystery spinners were once seen as lethal weapons in T20 cricket, but their effectiveness has recently been questioned. And amid Varun Chakravarthy’s struggles this season, Rayudu has now raised serious doubts over the value of so-called mystery spinners in the IPL.
Varun Chakraborty on target after Ambati Rayudu’s bold statement
Even though Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are still supporting the Indian spinner, the pressure is clearly increasing. Varun Chakravarthy is going through a very tough phase, he has scored 105 runs in his first three matches and has not been able to take any wicket so far in the ongoing IPL 2026.
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The “mystery spinner” is struggling to find his form as batsmen are now playing him with confidence, attacking his lengths and reading his variations without any trouble. Varun’s so-called mystery factor is completely missing this season.
The Indian spinners are now trying to bowl defensively, but that too is not working and they are now lacking confidence under pressure.
Ambati Rayudu says mystery spinners are ‘overhyped’ in IPL
Amid Varun’s struggles, Rayudu said that the hype around mystery spinners is bigger than their actual impact. The former CSK batsman has pointed out that most mystery spinners enjoy success only for a short period before batsmen start reading them easily.
Rayudu insists that there is only one exception, which is Sunil Narine, who has managed to survive and dominate in many seasons. Narine’s ability to change his game and remain unpredictable has helped him remain a constant threat.
Notably, the West Indies star is also a part of the KKR setup.
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In a video shared by ESPNCricinfo,
So, I guess mystery spinners are no longer a mystery. Most of the teams that have won the IPL have won without a mystery spinner in their ranks.
Are mystery spinners overrated? Do you agree with Rayudu? 👀 pic.twitter.com/me0H4ordvf
– ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) 15 April 2026
KKR’s IPL 2026 campaign is in trouble as injured Varun Chakravarthy pushes for a comeback
Meanwhile, things got worse for Varun Chakravarthy, with the KKR spinner suffering a finger injury while attempting a catch against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Eden Gardens.
It is being said that it was a hairline fracture which caused him to miss the recent two matches for the franchise in the ongoing IPL 2026. However, he is likely to return to action against Gujarat Titans.
“Varun is training despite his hand being bandaged. He is bowling in the nets and is looking good,” a KKR spokesperson said.
Notably, KKR are still searching for their first win this season, having lost four of their five matches, while one game against Punjab Kings at the Eden Gardens was washed out due to rain. They are currently sitting at the bottom of the points table with one point and will next face GT on April 17 in Ahmedabad.
