In the recent IPL 2024 final, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) triumphed over SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Chennai, with Gautam Gambhir, KKR’s mentor, praising Sunil Narine’s stellar performance. Narine, who was honored as the ‘Most Valuable Player’ of IPL 2024, played a pivotal role in KKR’s victory by scoring 488 runs and taking 17 wickets, a feat achieved under Gambhir’s guidance.
Gambhir, who was the captain of KKR during their 2012 and 2014 IPL victories, reminisced about Narine’s early days with the team. In a recent interview with Sportskeeda, Gambhir shared his thoughts on their relationship and Narine’s journey. He highlighted their similarities in character and emotion, recalling Narine’s initial reticence when he joined the IPL in 2012.
“Me and Narine are similar characters, and so are our emotions,” Gambhir said, recalling their first encounter in Jaipur. “I still remember that when Narine first came into the IPL in 2012, it was in Jaipur, and we were going for practice, and I told him to come join for lunch. He was so shy that he did not say a single word during lunch, and the first question that he eventually asked was, ‘Can I bring my girlfriend to the IPL?’
Gambhir noted how Narine’s shyness gradually transformed into a deep camaraderie. “He was so quiet that first season, but now, we can talk about anything. He is like a brother to me,” Gambhir remarked. He emphasized the strong bond they have developed over the years, which goes beyond mere friendship or teamwork.
“I don’t see him as a friend, I don’t see him as a teammate, I see him as a brother. If I need him or he needs me, I think we are just one call away, that is the sort of relationship that we have built. We do not get excited much, we do not show too many emotions, we are not flamboyant, we just do the job and come back,” Gambhir explained.
Gambhir’s Mentorship Fuels Narine’s Growth and KKR’s IPL Triumph
Gambhir’s praise for Narine underscores the all-rounder’s significant contributions to KKR’s success and highlights the unique relationship they share. This bond has not only helped Narine regain his form but also strengthened the team’s overall performance, leading to their recent IPL victory. Under Gambhir’s mentorship, Narine’s evolution from a shy newcomer to a confident and integral part of the team has been evident, marking a remarkable journey in the IPL.
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