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'SRK believes in tried and tested' - Fans react to Gautam Gambhir's appointment as KKR Mentor

Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the new mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of Indian Premier League 2024 has intrigued the KKR fans as they react to Gambhir's home coming

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Sarah Andrew
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Gambhir and SRK

Gautam Gambhir and Shah Rukh Khan (Source: Twitter)

In the illustrious 16-year history of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) stood tall, claiming the coveted title twice. Both triumphs were under the dynamic leadership of Gautam Gambhir. As Gambhir takes on a new role as the mentor for KKR, it marks a significant reunion with the team where he achieved remarkable success.

Gautam Gambhir's journey in the IPL began with the Delhi Daredevils, a team he represented initially due to his roots in Delhi. His prowess with the bat and leadership qualities quickly catapulted him to the captain's role for the Delhi Daredevils in the 2010 season. By the end of the tournament, he became the sole player from the Daredevils to amass over 1000 runs in the IPL.

The turning point came in 2011 when Delhi released Gambhir after a disappointing performance in the IPL auction, and KKR secured him with a record bid of $2.4 million. This made him the highest-paid cricketer in IPL history. Under Gambhir's captaincy, KKR not only qualified for the playoffs but also made their mark in the Champions League Twenty20.

Gambhir's leadership reached its zenith in 2012 when KKR clinched their first IPL title by defeating Chennai Super Kings. During that season, Gambhir not only led from the front but also became the second player to cross the 2000-run mark in IPL history, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer.

The success continued in 2014 as KKR, under Gambhir's captaincy, secured their second title by beating Kings XI Punjab. His contributions with the bat were instrumental, and he maintained his status as the team's highest run-scorer.

Gambhir's legacy at KKR extends to being their all-time leading run-scorer with an impressive tally of 3375 runs. In 2018, he returned to the Delhi Daredevils, only to step down from captaincy mid-season due to the team's poor performance.

Gautam Gambhir: From captain to mentor - A journey with KKR!

In a surprising turn of events, Gambhir has now been appointed as the Mentor for KKR, marking a significant return to his cricketing home. Shah Rukh Khan, the co-owner of KKR, played a crucial role in this reunion, highlighting the strong relationship and mutual respect between the two.

The announcement has sparked excitement among KKR fans and Gambhir enthusiasts, who are anticipating promising results that this partnership may yield. Despite stepping into a new role, Gambhir is determined to bring the same winning spirit and results to KKR, reminiscent of the trophy-laden years.

Gautam Gambir said a few words after his appointment as KKR's mentor, "I am not an emotional person and not many things move me. But this is different. This is back to where it all started. Today, there is a lump in my throat and fire in my heart as I think about slipping into that purple and gold jersey once again. I am not only coming back to KKR but I am coming back to the city of joy. I am back. I am hungry. I am number 23. Ami KKR"Β 

For Shah Rukh Khan, this move aligns with the belief of the tried and tested, showing the confidence in Gambhir's ability to contribute to the team's success. As the mentorship journey begins, all eyes are on Gautam Gambhir and KKR, as they embark on a new chapter together in the upcoming IPL season.

See how fans have reacted:Β 

Gautam Gambhir IPL KKR Kolkata Knight Riders Delhi Capitals Shah Rukh Khan IPL Auction 2024 IPL 2024