Key Takeaways
- Gautam Gambhir returns to KKR as a mentor, reuniting with the franchise that won two IPL titles during his tenure.
- Head coach Chandrakant Pandit will work closely with Gambhir to instill a never‑say‑die spirit in the squad.
- Gambhir’s emotional comeback highlights his connection to Kolkata, the “city of joy,” and the iconic purple and gold jersey.
Kolkata: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) CEO Venky Mysore Mysore on Wednesday announced that Gautam Gambhir will return to the team as “Mentor” and join hands with head coach Chandrakant Pandit.
Gambhir’s previous association with KKR from 2011-17 was nothing short of historic.
During the period, the team won the title twice, qualified for the playoffs five times, and reached the finals of the Champions League T20 in 2014.
Speaking on his return, 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.”
Welcoming Gambhir back to KKR, Shah Rukh 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 in instilling the never-say-die spirit and of sportsmanship they stand for, in creating magic with Team KKR.”
