Gautam Gambhir the mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) shared the vibrant atmosphere at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai after the teams triumph in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL). Purple flooded the grounds marking the exuberant celebrations that enveloped everyone including Gambhir showcasing his crucial role in the memorable victory.
Gautam Gambhir and Sunil Narine were seen smiling and lifting each other up during the festivities, creating a sight that would live on in KKR legend for years to come. The KKR players also made a point of lifting their instructor to demonstrate his role in the trophy triumph, and Gautam Gambhir undoubtedly appreciated the occasion.
Gautam Gambhir said that the victory sparked an outpouring of emotions, particularly given the circumstances surrounding it.
“I have not lifted a lot of players before, and neither have players lifted me before, but there were lot of emotions after the win. I reunited with Narine and Russell after six years, and that is a long period of time, and I know them very well so the emotions came out after winning, and this is why you play cricket.”
Gautam Gambhir
Sunil Narine was a pivotal figure in KKRs triumphant campaign during the 2024 IPL clinching the welldeserved recognition as the Most Valuable Player for his outstanding allround performances. The talented Caribbean sensation racked up an impressive 488 runs at an electrifying strike rate of 180.74 and scalped 17 crucial wickets at an economical rate of 6.69.
“Even if Narine was not given the MVP award, he would still be KKR’s MVP always. You can look at the stats and all, but Narine was KKR’s MVP even before the tournament began. There is a lot to see from Narine still, he still has the ability to give a lot more for KKR and world cricket.”
Gautam Gambhir
Narine has been kept by KKR since his debut in 2012, and his relationship with the team is anticipated to continue based on his results this season.
“There are so many teams where only one bowler has reached 17-18 wickets, but here our sixth bowling option stepped up with 19 wickets” – Gautam Gambhir on Andre Russell
Along with Narine, another KKR veteran in the form of Andre Russell came through when it counted. The all-rounder contributed to KKR’s success with cameo appearances and crucial ball strikes. He finished with 19 wickets, an average of 15.53.
“Absolutely, Shreyas deserves praise for utilizing Russell well with the ball. There are so many teams where only one bowler has reached 17-18 wickets, but here our sixth bowling option stepped up with 19 wickets, and that too some crucial ones. West Indies will be a huge threat to other teams at the World Cup, because they have everything to become a champion side.”
Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir focused on Russell’s relationship with KKR, which is based on trust and respect.
“When one is associated with a franchise for 12-13 years, there is a lot of emotion involved. The franchise must also be credited for the way they have treated players. Honestly, Russell owes nothing to KKR because of what he has already done, only a few players have done for their franchises. It is a relationship built on trust and respect.”
Gautam Gambhir
Andre Russell will represent the West Indies in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. The all-rounder recently returned to the national team, but he was unable to persuade Sunil Narine to follow suit.