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In a significant development for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fans, former captain Gautam Gambhir has rejoined the franchise as a mentor for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Gambhir, who played a pivotal role in leading KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, expressed his excitement and shared his thoughts on the new role.
Gautam Gambhir part ways with Lucknow Super Giants
Gambhir parted ways with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the IPL 2024 auction to join his old franchise KKR. His two-year-long association with LSG as a mentor came to an end on Wednesday when the ex-India opener confirmed the development through a social media post.
“As I announce the end of my impeccable journey with Lucknow Super Giants, I am filled with love and immense gratitude towards all the players, coaches, support staff and every individual who has made this journey memorable. I would like to thank Dr. Sanjiv Goenka for his inspiring leadership while creating this remarkable franchise and for his tremendous support to all my endeavours,” Gambhir posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“I’m sure that the team will do wonders in the future and will make every LSG fan proud. All the very best LSG brigade,” the southpaw added.
❤️❤️ LSG Brigade! pic.twitter.com/xfG3YBu6l4
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) November 22, 2023
“I am coming back to the city of joy”: Gambhir
Gambhir, known for his gritty leadership and stellar performances during his playing days, is set to bring his wealth of experience and cricketing acumen back to the KKR camp. The announcement of his return was met with enthusiasm from fans who fondly remember his captaincy tenure.
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In his official statement, 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.”
Your words have made us 🥹🥹🥹, @GautamGambhir! #AmiKKR #GautamGambhir #GGisBack pic.twitter.com/Wj49jIj0rt
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 22, 2023
The news comes as KKR looks to strengthen its coaching setup and capitalize on Gambhir’s valuable insights and strategic vision. Gambhir’s leadership was instrumental in shaping KKR’s identity as a competitive force in the IPL.