Robin Uthappa revealed a deeper account of his worsened relationship with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise after directly indicating a rift between the two parties. Prior to the marquee Eliminator game in IPL 2023 scheduled on Wednesday (May 24) night, Uthappa hogged the limelight with a two-part statement on the matter that has picked up steam since his controversial remark on the two-time champions. 

The dramatic episode began with Uthappa posting a picture of him in his former IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) jersey along with his son ahead of their Qualifier 1 clash against defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) on Tuesday. 

Beneath the pic, a fan questioned since the ex India middle-order batter played only two seasons with CSK at the fag end of his competitive career, how come he seemingly maintains a healthier relationship with them rather than KKR, with whom he had a longer, more successful on-field association?

To this, Uthappa ended up sparking a big controversy by insisting "loyalty and respect is a give and take my friend!!", directly suggesting that he wasn't given the fair treatment by the franchise during his time even as he enjoyed his peak as an IPL batter in the KKR colours and won the titles with them in 2012 and 2014. 

The tweet raised the eyebrows for KKR's passionate fandom, bringing Robin Uthappa in the midst of the spotlight in a huge controversy. Previously as well, Uthappa had indicated he wasn't the most pleased with the treatment handed over to him during his KKR stint. The cricketer has on multiple occasions insisted CSK were the strongest support during his IPL playing days. 

Now in a deeper explanation on the matter, Uthappa clarified that the KKR fans must not feel offended at his remarks, for he remains grateful of their support and only feels miffed at the treatment the franchise gave him, especially after the departure of the former captain Gautam Gambhir following IPL 2017.