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Gautam Gambhir‘s tenure with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) marked a significant chapter in the franchise’s history. As one of the most successful captains in the league, Gambhir not only led KKR to two IPL titles but also instilled a culture of resilience, determination, and strategic acumen within the team. His leadership style, characterized by tactical brilliance and a fierce competitive spirit, endeared him to fans and earned him widespread admiration across the cricketing world.
Gautam Gambhir reveals the unsung hero
As the former captain turned mentor, Gambhir’s association with KKR transcends mere statistics, embodying the very essence of the franchise’s triumphs and trials. Recently, Gambhir shed light on one of the unsung heroes of the IPL – a player whose selflessness and commitment left an indelible mark on him. In a heartfelt revelation, Gambhir lauded this individual as the “greatest team man” he has ever had the privilege to play alongside.
Gambhir unveiled the subject of his admiration in the form of ex-Netherlands cricketer Ryan ten Doeschate. Ten Doeschate, who joined KKR in 2011, holds the distinction of being the first associate player to secure a contract in the prestigious T20 league.
Lessons in selflessness
Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his captaincy journey, Gambhir recounted a match where KKR found themselves short on overseas players. Despite Ten Doeschate’s remarkable performance in the World Cup, he willingly embraced the role of a drinks carrier without a trace of disappointment. Gambhir hailed Ten Doeschate’s actions as a beacon of selflessness and a defining moment in his leadership evolution.
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“When I talk about selflessness, the greatest team man I have ever played with, the most selfless human being, someone I can take a bullet for, someone I can trust for life… In 2011, my first game as a KKR captain, we only had four overseas players available. This man had a fabulous 50-over World Cup,” said Gambhir while speaking at the KKR jersey launch event for IPL 2024.
“We went into that game with only three overseas players. He was carrying drinks in that game with no disappointment on his face. He taught me selflessness – Ryan ten Doeschate. These are people who taught me to be a leader,” Gambhir added.
Impactful contribution
During his tenure with KKR from 2011 to 2015, Ten Doeschate’s contributions extended beyond mere statistics. While amassing 326 runs and claiming two wickets, his unwavering commitment to the team ethos left an enduring legacy.
