Xtra Time Web Desk: Two times former IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday made a big announcement by appointing Gautam Gambhir as their mentor ahead of IPL 2024 season. Gambhir will return to his former franchise as a mentor and join hands with head coach Chandrakant Pandit.
Gambhir’s previous association with KKR from 2011-17 was nothing short of historic. During this period, the team won the title twice, qualified for the playoffs five times, and reached the finals of the Champions League T20 in 2014.
Speaking on his return, Gambhir said, “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.”
Welcoming Gambhir back to KKR family, KKR’s principal owner Shah Rukh Khan said, “Gautam has always been part of the family and this is our Captain coming back home in a different avatar as a “Mentor”. He was sorely missed and now we all look forward to Chandu Sir and Gautam in instilling the never-say-die spirit and of sportsmanship they stand for, in creating magic with Team KKR.”