(Source TLT)
Kevin Pietersen, the former England cricketer-turned-commentator, openly acknowledges that his initial skepticism about West Indian spin all-rounder Sunil Narine has been proven wrong by Narine’s remarkable and record-breaking performance for the newly-crowned champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2024.
Narine endured lackluster seasons with both bat and ball for KKR in recent IPL editions, managing only 154 runs and 36 wickets combined over the past three seasons. However, Gautam Gambhir’s return to KKR as mentor proved transformative not only for the team but also for the enigmatic spinner.
In a stunning turnaround, Narine emerged as the Most Valuable Player of IPL 2024, contributing 488 runs and 17 wickets to KKR’s title triumph, ending a decade-long wait. His consistency throughout the season was remarkable. Pietersen, who initially criticized KKR’s decision to open with Narine citing his poor track record in previous seasons, now acknowledges his misjudgment in light of Narine’s stellar performance.
Kevin Pietersen reverses his stance on Sunil Narine’s IPL 2024 showing.
Despite previous doubts, Narine emerged as a pivotal asset for KKR. Pietersen now applauds Narine’s astonishing resurgence this season, noting his transformed approach. The commentator highlights Narine’s batting prowess, showcasing a diverse range of shots and a notable average of 34, coupled with an exceptional strike rate of 180 in IPL 2024.
Praising his bowling, he said that Narine was an absolute superstar with the ball for the Men in Purple and Gold this season. The Englishman also praised Narine’s adaptability and contributions, calling him the heart and soul of the KKR.
Kevin Pietersen said on Star Sports show Cricket Live: “It is amazing, it really is amazing what Sunil Narine did, because I was one of the most vocal critics at the start of the tournament, saying I didn’t like Narine at the top of the order due to his inconsistency. He typically would hit a six and then get out, disrupting the momentum.
However, this season, he has been consistent. He’s thought like a batter, batted like a batter, and got the runs of a batter. He’s played both sides of the wicket exceptionally well. And, of course, we don’t need to say much about his bowling—he is an out-and-out superstar. His ability to change his action and still produce such impressive numbers is quite something. He is the heart and soul of this outfit, isn’t he?”
Matthew Hayden praises Kevin Pietersen following his courageous acknowledgment on live television.
Meanwhile, former Australian opener and cricket commentator Matthew Hayden conceded that Sunil Narine had defied Kevin Pietersen’s expectations with his stellar display in IPL 2024. Hayden emphasized the importance of honesty in analysis from former players and cricket pundits, acknowledging their admiration when players exceed their anticipated performance levels.
He also said that Narine showed his skills as a genuine batter with remarkable consistency and intent, reinforcing his status as one of the best players in the league. Matthew Hayden said on the same show: “All I heard from Kevin Pietersen in summary was that I was wrong about Sunil Narine. I mean, that’s what we’re designed to do as former players.
We have to call it as we see it. It’s as simple as that, but what you’ll see about Kevin and all of us, is that when we’re wrong, we love to see players prove themselves right. Absolutely. And that’s exactly what Sunil Narine’s done this IPL. He’s been amazing, he’s still there and he’s still the best player.”
