Gautam Gambhir’s Return to KKR – Upon his return to Kolkata, Gautam Gambhir was warmly received at the airport, marking his reunion with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. After a hiatus of seven years, Gambhir’s comeback to the franchise holds significance, as he had departed as a player after the 2017 season. His previous association with the team saw remarkable achievements, as the former India skipper played a pivotal role in KKR’s transformation from underdogs to IPL champions.
Initially representing Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) for the first three IPL seasons, Gambhir’s move to KKR in 2011, for a significant sum of USD 2.4 million, marked a turning point. Assuming the captaincy, he swiftly proved his mettle, leading KKR to their first playoffs in his debut season and securing their maiden IPL title in 2012. This success continued in 2014 when KKR clinched the championship once more, cementing their status as a formidable force in the league. Gambhir remained at the helm until 2017 before opting for a departure from the team.
Gautam Gambhir returns back to KKR as mentor
After a seven-year hiatus from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Gautam Gambhir made a triumphant return to the city, this time as a mentor for the team in IPL 2024. His arrival sparked an enthusiastic reception, with throngs of fans and media eagerly awaiting him at the airport. Chants of ‘we love GG’ filled the air as the esteemed former India opener emerged from the terminal, greeted by the adoration of his supporters.
Having served as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants in the previous two IPL editions, Gautam Gambhir opted to return to KKR. Despite Lucknow’s playoff appearances in both seasons, they fell short of reaching the finals. KKR is banking on Gambhir to replicate his transformative impact from over a decade ago when he led them to their second IPL title in 2014. Notably, KKR has not clinched the IPL trophy since then. With IPL 2024 set to commence on March 22, KKR will kick off their campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23.
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