Having revived their season with five wins in their last six matches after a disappointing first half, Kolkata remain in a precarious position in the race for the final playoff berth. While other results must still go their way, KKR know victory at Eden Gardens is non-negotiable if they are to stay alive in the competition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Amid the franchise\u2019s late resurgence, Anukul has quietly grown into a more significant role within the side, providing balance with both bat and ball alongside KKR\u2019s established spin options, and believes the consistency in his performances is finally beginning to show.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, he expressed satisfaction at finally establishing himself regularly in the playing XI.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI\u2019m grateful for this opportunity. My performances with the ball and the bat have played a big role in getting me here, and I\u2019m thoroughly enjoying it,\u201d Anukul told the media at the pre-match press conference.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite his growing influence on the side and improved domestic performances over the last few seasons, Anukul maintained that there is still room for further growth.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThere is always something to improve upon, and I wish to have just as much of an impact at KKR as I had at the domestic level. I want to contribute to every department and help this team as much as I possibly can,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Now in his fifth season with KKR, the 27-year-old credited improved consistency and clearer preparation routines for his development into a more complete all-rounder.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe preparation before heading into matches has stayed the same throughout my time with KKR. You are now starting to see the consistency in my game as well. Over the past two years, I\u2019ve seen improvements in all departments of my game. While batting, I just focused on staying at the pitch for longer, and with the ball, I focused on reducing my economy as a bowler because it helps you get more wickets eventually too,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Anukul has also become a flexible bowling option for KKR this season, often being used across different phases depending on match situations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt\u2019s all based on the situations that present themselves in the match. I step in whenever I\u2019m called upon, be it the powerplay or in the middle overs. We constantly have these discussions about the bowling rotations within the team and with our coaching staff,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
KKR face a major challenge against a Mumbai batting unit packed with experienced stroke-makers, but Anukul insisted Kolkata\u2019s focus remains more on execution than opposition reputation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt\u2019s all based on the situations that present themselves in the match. I step in whenever I\u2019m called upon, be it the powerplay or in the middle overs. We constantly have these discussions about the bowling rotations within the team and with our coaching staff,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The spinner also highlighted the importance of video analysis and tactical preparation within the team environment, saying, \u201cYes, we do this before every game as we like to prepare thoroughly and focus on the details as much as possible; it\u2019s a huge part of our preparation.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n