Gautam Gambhir has returned to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as mentor. Previously he was the mentor of Lucknow Super Giants. He served for two years at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Gambhir was the KKR captain from 2011 to 2017. Within that period, the team claimed the title twice, made it to the playoffs five times, and even reached the finals of the Champions League T20 in 2014. Gambhir has won Kolkata Knight Riders two IPL titles, including 2012 and 2014. So, actually returning to KKR as mentor is his home coming. He will join hands with current KKR head coach Chandrakant Pandit.
Welcoming Gambhir back to KKR, co-owner Shah Rukh Khan mentioned, “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.” Gambhir wrote on his X handle sharing his photo in the KKR jersey, “I am back. I an hungry. I am No 23. Ami KKR.”
Previously Gambhir wrote on his X handle, “As I announce the end of my impeccable journey with Lucknow Super Giants, I am filled with love and immense gratitude towards all the players, coaches, support staff and every individual who has made this journey memorable.” As the former LSG mentor he thanked the owner Sanjiv Goenka, “I would like to thank Dr. Sanjib Goenka for his inpiring leadership while creating this remarkable franchise and for his tremendous support to all my endeavours. I am sure that the team will do wonders in the future and will make every LSG fan proud. All the very best LSG brigade.”
Gambhir is the most successful KKR Captain. Under his captaincy KKR won two IPL titles. Also played playoffs five times and reached Champions League Final once. Since then Kolkata Knight Riders managed to reach final just once, losing it to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2021. Now Gambhir decided to join KKR as mentor. This news has been officially announced by KKR CEO Venky Mysore on Wednesday.