Gautam Gambhir, renowned for leading the Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in the IPL tournaments of 2012 and 2014, is making a significant return to the franchise as its mentor alongside head coach Chandrakant Pandit for the upcoming 2024 season, as announced by the Indian Premier League team.
Having been associated with Knight Riders since 2011 until 2017, Gambhir played a pivotal role in the team's success, leading them to five IPL playoffs, including their two championship-winning seasons, and the finals of the Champions League T20 in 2014.
Expressing his sentiments on his homecoming, Gambhir shared, "I'm not usually one for emotions, but this feels different. This is where it all began. Today, there's a lump in my throat and a fire in my heart at the thought of donning that purple and gold jersey again. It's not just a return to KKR, but a return to the city of joy. I'm back. I'm hungry. I am number 23. Ami KKR."
Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of KKR, expressed his excitement about Gambhir's return, stating, "Gautam has always been a part of our family, and now he returns as a 'Mentor' in a different role. His absence was deeply felt, and now with Chandu Sir and Gautam, we anticipate the resurgence of the never-say-die spirit and sportsmanship they embody, creating magic with Team KKR."
The KKR support team, led by head coach Chandrakant Pandit, comprises Abhishek Nayar and James Foster as assistant coaches, Bharat Arun as the bowling coach, and Ryan ten Doeschate as the fielding coach. With this robust lineup, KKR aims to build on their legacy and elevate their performance in the upcoming IPL season.
(With Agency Inputs)
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