IPL 2024: Gautam Gambhir, a key player in the Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) two Indian Premier League (IPL) title victories, has returned to the team, this time in the role of mentor. After a stint as the mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Gambhir brings his experience back to KKR.
His previous association with KKR from 2011 to 2017 was highly successful, marked by two IPL titles, five playoff appearances, and a spot in the 2014 Champions League T20 finals. Gambhir’s return adds valuable insights to KKR, combining his historical success with the team and his recent mentoring experience.
Emotional Return to KKR
Expressing his comeback, Gambhir shared, “Emotions aside, it’s a special return. Wearing the iconic purple and gold jersey again brings a lump to my throat and a passionate fire within. This isn’t just rejoining KKR; it’s a homecoming to the city of joy. I’m eager, hungry, and proudly wearing number 23. Ami KKR.
🚨 BIG BREAKING 🚨
Gautam Gambhir is back as mentor for #KKR. This has to be the best decision by KKR management in the recent past. Winner!!! pic.twitter.com/dXCRCvSU0u— KKR Karavan (@KkrKaravan) November 22, 2023
Shah Rukh Khan Welcomes Gambhir’s KKR Return
Co-owner Shah Rukh Khan warmly welcomes Gautam Gambhir back to Kolkata Knight Riders, expressing, “Gautam has always been part of our family, and now he returns in a new role as a ‘Mentor.’ His absence was deeply felt, and we eagerly anticipate Chandu Sir and Gautam infusing the never-give-up spirit and sportsmanship they embody, crafting magic with Team KKR.
“Today, there is a lump in my throat & fire in my heart as I think about slipping into that purple & 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.”
: #GautamGambhir#ShahRukhKhan pic.twitter.com/RebKMDVdr2— Shah Rukh Khan Warriors FAN Club (@TeamSRKWarriors) November 22, 2023
Gautam Gambhir Gratitude to LSG Family
On his X (formerly Twitter) account, Gautam Gambhir penned a heartfelt note bidding farewell to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fans. Wishing them success in future championships, he expressed deep love and gratitude to players, coaches, support staff, and everyone who contributed to the memorable journey.
Gambhir extended special thanks to owner Dr. Sanjiv Goenka for his inspiring leadership, expressing confidence in the team’s future success. He concluded by wishing the LSG brigade all the best, confident they would continue making fans proud.
Gautam Gambhir Return to KKR: “Ami KKR”
In an X update, the former KKR captain announced his return with a powerful statement: “I am back. I am hungry. I am No 23. Ami KKR.” Since Gambhir’s departure in 2016, KKR reached one final in 2021, losing to Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
The franchise, seeking a resurgence, has turned to their talismanic skipper to revive the magic and guide them to a potential third IPL title. The iconic No. 23 jersey represents Gambhir’s renewed commitment to Kolkata Knight Riders.