Amidst the scorching heat wave in Kolkata, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) showcased resilience and determination during their five home games in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The team, led by Shreyas Iyer, faced extreme temperatures, with two of their matches taking place in the afternoon heat.
On April 30, Kolkata recorded its hottest day since 1954, with temperatures soaring to 43°C. Just a day earlier, KKR defeated the Delhi Capitals under a blazing 41.7°C sun. The afternoon matches against the Lucknow Super Giants and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru were also played under sweltering conditions, with temperatures hovering around 39°C and 41°C, respectively.
Recognizing the physical toll that the heat could take on the players, KKR’s strength-and-conditioning coaches implemented a meticulous hydration strategy. Assistant strength-and-conditioning coach Sagar V revealed that players could lose up to 2kg of body weight during a game, with fast bowlers, wicketkeeper batters, and boundary riders being particularly vulnerable to dehydration.
To combat these challenges, KKR employed a comprehensive approach. Players were provided with temperature-controlled pools, drinks on team buses, and fluids on the boundary line. The team also emphasized the importance of hydration protocols and educated players on the telltale signs of fatigue.
Strength-and-conditioning coach Chris Donaldson, an Olympic sprinter from New Zealand, highlighted the importance of eliminating fear and focusing on positive aspects. By instilling confidence in the players, KKR aimed to prevent them from becoming preoccupied with the negative effects of the heat.
The preparation cycle for each match began the day before with a nutritious meal and ample fluids. Donaldson explained that the team sometimes utilized the hotel’s cold pool to aid sleep, with water temperatures maintained at 14-15°C.
On game day, drinks were strategically placed on seats in the team bus, and coaches made rounds in the changing room to distribute energy bars and ensure hydration. Donaldson acknowledged that some players might struggle to eat due to pre-match nerves, but the team made every effort to provide them with high-glucose liquids or energy bars.
Beyond the visible measures, KKR also positioned players and staff behind the boundary line with fluids, ready to assist players at a moment’s notice. Donaldson emphasized the need to be proactive, as players often become engrossed in the game and may neglect their hydration needs.
Recovery also posed challenges, especially after rain delays. The KKR-Mumbai Indians match ended well past midnight, followed by a flight to Ahmedabad on Sunday evening. Sagar explained that players often struggled to sleep due to adrenaline and fatigue, leading to reduced sleep hours and the need for careful recovery strategies.
Individual feedback and non-verbal cues played a crucial role in monitoring player hydration. Coaches observed players’ movements and initiated conversations to assess their well-being. Players were encouraged to consume a minimum of three liters of fluids daily and prioritize sleep, especially after games or intense training sessions.
Sagar emphasized the importance of maintaining an optimal balance of electrolytes and fluids. “Too much salt can lead to bloating,” he said. “Elite athletes understand this balance. With younger players, we have regular conversations to educate them.”
The strength and conditioning coaches remained vigilant throughout the games, ensuring that players were adequately hydrated and energized. While their focus was primarily on the players, they acknowledged the need for self-care, with Sagar jokingly asking Donaldson, “Who’s checking our hydration levels?”
In the face of extreme heat, KKR demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. Through a combination of hydration protocols, proactive measures, and a positive mindset, they managed to overcome the challenges of dehydration and cramps, showcasing the dedication and professionalism that define the team.
