Shruti Suman
Gautam Gambhir has been hailed as a key figure behind Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. With Shreyas Iyer leading the team, KKR lifted the coveted title on Sunday, and Gambhir’s influence on the team’s success is widely acknowledged. Since joining KKR, Gambhir has revolutionized the franchise with strategic decisions that proved pivotal in winning the 17th edition of the T20 league. As KKR ended their 10-year wait to win the IPL trophy for the third time, Gambhir shared an inspirational post on social media that quickly went viral.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), the KKR mentor wrote: “Whose thoughts and actions are of truth, Even today Lord Krishna drives his chariot.”
Gambhir has received widespread praise for his strategic acumen and infectious energy, which many believe were instrumental in turning KKR’s season around.
Gambhir, who previously captained KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, returned as the mentor this season, determined to end their decade-long trophy drought. On Sunday, he fulfilled this promise as KKR claimed their third IPL title, 12 years after their first championship win in 2012.
Speaking to the broadcaster after the match, KKR vice-captain Nitish Rana credited Gambhir for the team’s success.
“I want to share a short story: when GG bhaiya was named the mentor, I sent him a long message because I was really happy. He replied, ‘Thank you, but I would be happy if we stand at the podium with the trophy in our hands.’ Today is that day, and I will never forget that message,” revealed Rana.
Another KKR star, Rinku Singh, expressed his joy after winning the title and specifically mentioned Gambhir in his post-match interview. “I feel outstanding right now. My seven-year dream is complete. Finally, I will lift the trophy. I am proud of my whole team and GG sir. It was God’s plan,” he said.
Khushi Sikarwar
