(Source X)
Venky Mysore, CEO of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), shared a heartfelt farewell message for Gautam Gambhir as he stepped into his new role as head coach of the Indian Cricket Team, succeeding Rahul Dravid. The departure was marked by deep emotion for both Gambhir and KKR, underscoring their unwavering commitment to the nation above all else.
Gambhir rejoined KKR last year and, under his guidance, the franchise clinched the IPL 2024 title, ending a drought of over a decade. The memorable victory came as they triumphed over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a resounding final at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium on May 26.
Gautam Gambhir departs KKR to lead Team India as head coach.
Gautam Gambhir’s legacy with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is iconic, marking a pivotal era for the franchise. He took on the captaincy reins from Bengal’s beloved Sourav Ganguly in 2011, ushering in a new chapter that resonated deeply with KKR fans. Despite his Delhi origins, Gambhir wholeheartedly embraced Kolkata’s spirit, rallying the team under the iconic motto ‘korbo, lorbo, jeetbo’.
His captaincy tenure from 2011 to 2017 was adorned with remarkable achievements, including KKR’s maiden IPL title in 2012 and a second triumph in 2014. Under his leadership, KKR consistently excelled, making IPL playoffs five times and reaching the Champions League T20 final in 2014.
Gambhir’s return to KKR in recent times further cemented his legendary status, culminating in yet another IPL victory earlier this year, capturing the hearts of fans once more.
No doubt you will make India proud: Venky Mysore to Gautam Gambhir
With Gambhir now assuming the role of Team India’s head coach, succeeding Dravid, KKR finds itself once more without its former mentor in the IPL. Venky Mysore, the franchise CEO, spoke glowingly about Gambhir, describing his pride in the former cricketer’s contributions to KKR. Mysore expressed confidence that Gambhir will bring immense pride to the nation through his coaching endeavors, marking the dawn of a promising new era in Indian cricket set to commence later this month.
Sharing a KKR post on X, Venky Mysore said: “Very proud of you, @GautamGambhir. No doubt you will make India proud.”
In the midst of these developments, Gambhir extended his congratulations to Dravid and his support team for their outstanding efforts with the Indian squad. Emphasizing his deep passion for cricket, the new head coach expressed eagerness to collaborate closely with the BCCI, NCA head VVS Laxman, the support staff, and the Indian players. He voiced his determination to strive for success in the upcoming tournaments, underscoring his commitment to the sport he loves.
Gambhir added: “I have always taken pride in donning the Indian jersey during my playing days, and it is going to be no different when I take up this new role.”
