In a momentous announcement on Wednesday, November 22, Venky Mysore, the CEO of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), revealed that Gautam Gambhir would be making a triumphant return to the team, not as a player but as a “Mentor.” This move, a blend of nostalgia and strategic insight, aims to rejuvenate KKR’s cricketing spirit as Gambhir joins forces with head coach Chandrakant Pandit.
Gautam Gambhir’s association with KKR from 2011 to 2017 is etched in the annals of IPL history. During this period, KKR not only clinched the coveted title twice but also secured playoff berths on five occasions. Additionally, the team reached the finals of the Champions League T20 in 2014, underlining Gambhir’s captaincy prowess and leadership impact.
Gambhir, known for his stoic demeanour on the field, expressed the unique emotions tied to his return. He stated, “I am not an emotional person and not many things move me. But this is different. This is back to where it all started.” The announcement stirred a deep sense of connection for Gambhir, symbolized by slipping back into the iconic purple and gold jersey.
With a lump in his throat and a fire in his heart, Gambhir conveyed his eagerness to rejoin KKR. “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,” he proclaimed, encapsulating the passion and determination that defined his playing career.
I’m back. I’m hungry. I’m No.23. Ami KKR ❤️❤️ @KKRiders pic.twitter.com/KDRneHmzN4
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) November 22, 2023
The return of Gambhir resonated deeply with KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan. He warmly welcomed the former captain back to the KKR family, acknowledging Gambhir’s enduring connection. He expressed how Gambhir’s absence had been felt, and now, with both Chandu Sir and Gambhir on board, the aim is to instil the never-say-die spirit and sportsmanship they stand for, creating magic with Team KKR.
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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 instilling the never-say-die spirit and of sportsmanship they stand for, in creating magic with Team KKR.”
Welcome home, mentor @GautamGambhir! 🤗
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 22, 2023
Full story: https://t.co/K9wduztfHg#AmiKKR pic.twitter.com/inOX9HFtTT
