
Gautam Gambhir, the two-time IPL title-winning captain with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012 and 2014, is set to make a return to the franchise as the team’s mentor for the forthcoming IPL 2024 season, as confirmed by the Indian Premier League franchise.
Having initially joined Knight Riders in 2011, Gambhir’s tenure extended until 2017, witnessing significant successes for the team. Under his leadership, KKR secured playoff berths five times, including their triumphant IPL campaigns, and notably reached the final of the Champions League T20 in 2014.
Expressing his sentiments on rejoining the team, Gambhir remarked, “This feels like a homecoming. It stirs up a unique emotion in me. The prospect of donning that vibrant purple and gold jersey again fills me with immense pride. Returning to Kolkata is returning to the ‘City of Joy’. I’m back, driven, and resolute. I’m #23. Ami KKR.”
Advertisement
Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of KKR, expressed his excitement about Gambhir’s return, stating, “Gautam has always been an integral part of our family. His comeback, this time as a ‘Mentor,’ holds special significance. We missed him dearly, and now we eagerly anticipate the synergy between Chandu Sir and Gautam in instilling the relentless spirit and sportsmanship they epitomize, fostering brilliance with Team KKR.”
The KKR support team, spearheaded by head coach Chandrakant Pandit, includes Abhishek Nayar and James Foster as assistant coaches, Bharat Arun as the bowling coach, and Ryan ten Doeschate as the fielding coach.
-IANS