Kartik Tyagi, the fast bowler for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), discussed his valuable experiences with mentor Dwayne Bravo and his encounter with the franchise's owner, Shah Rukh Khan, as they prepare for their upcoming match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday. Tyagi commended Bravo for his extensive knowledge, emphasizing that a crucial lesson learned is knowing when to utilize specific skills during high-pressure situations. He noted that having experienced players in the squad significantly aids in making critical decisions on the field. 'Dwayne has immense experience in T20 cricket, and everyone recognizes his abilities. However, it's essential to know which skill to deploy and when. Sometimes, despite having a plan, it can be challenging to think clearly under pressure, especially after a long break. That's where having someone with such experience is invaluable; they guide us on what actions to take and the right moments to bowl,' he stated during the pre-match press conference.

Tyagi also shared that meeting Shah Rukh Khan, the owner of KKR, was a motivating experience for the players. 'We had a meeting with Shah Rukh Khan, and he inspired us greatly. He encouraged us to always aim for excellence, which truly motivated us,' Tyagi remarked.

KKR's performance this season has been disappointing, as they remain winless after three matches in IPL 2026. Currently, they sit in eighth place on the points table with just one point, which they earned after their match against Punjab Kings was called off due to rain, resulting in both teams sharing a point. Nevertheless, Tyagi expressed the team's strong focus and determination to secure a win against LSG. 'We are concentrated on winning this match and are very eager for it. It has been on our minds for several days. We are continuously strategizing on how to achieve victory. Our preparations are complete, and we hope for a favorable outcome,' Tyagi concluded.