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Xtra Time Web Desk: It seems like Shreyas Iyer, the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), is dismissing concerns about his back injury and is confident about his fitness ahead of their IPL 2024 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Despite missing the entire previous season due to a back ailment, Iyer is optimistic about his return and has been focusing on his batting.

"I feel I'm in the best shape possible and I've been batting for longer periods of time. I don't want to think about what the doctor has said, what the injury was, if you put your focus on the injury, and in that moment, you forget about what you're doing the best," Shreyas Iyer told the reporters ahead of the SRH clash.

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The return of Shreyas Iyer after a long injury lay-off is a significant aspect as KKR gears up to face SRH. Additionally, the clash between the two most expensive recruits of IPL 2024, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, adds further excitement to the match.

Gautam Gambhir's return to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a mentor for the second time is significant, given his success as a leader during his captaincy tenure. His partnership with head coach Chandrakant Pandit, known for his tactical acumen in local cricket circuits, is expected to play a crucial role in KKR's resurgence.

Team principal owner Shah Rukh Khan's message to Gambhir, "This is your franchise, make it or break it," underscores the responsibility entrusted upon Gambhir to guide KKR to success. During Gambhir's captaincy from 2011 to 2017, KKR enjoyed a period of significant achievement, including two IPL titles, five playoff appearances, and a runners-up finish in the Champions League T20 tournament.

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The acquisition of Mitchell Starc at a record sum of ?24.75 crore is a testament to KKR's ambition for the IPL 2024 season. Starc's presence adds immense pressure on him to deliver impactful performances, and his contribution will be closely scrutinized by fans and pundits alike.

With Gambhir's leadership experience, Pandit's tactical prowess, and the high-profile signing of Starc, KKR aims to make a strong statement in IPL 2024 and reclaim its position among the top teams in the tournament.