Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer is eagerly anticipating the return of Gautam Gambhir to the franchise as a mentor for the upcoming 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
The former captain has stepped down from his coaching role with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and his involvement in politics to focus on rejoining KKR. Despite reaching the finals in the 2021 edition, KKR has faced challenges since Gambhir’s departure, with their two titles achieved under his leadership.
In the recent editions, KKR failed to secure a playoff spot. The team underwent significant changes, with Brendon McCullum and Eoin Morgan departing from their roles as head coach and captain.
Chandrakant Pandit and Shreyas Iyer stepped into these positions. In the previous year, Nitish Rana led KKR as Shreyas was sidelined due to injury.
“Gautam sir coming back is going to be a huge plus for KKR. I’m really looking forward to working with him.”
”Whatever conversations I’ve had with him in the past, he has always talked about creating an impact for the team’s goals rather than personal milestones,” Venkatesh Iyer was quoted as saying by KKR.
“He is an amazing leader and I’m also excited to see the combination of him and Chandu sir (Chandrakant Pandit). Both are amazing tacticians and have the experience of winning trophies,” he added.
KKR is set to commence their 2024 season with a match against the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 23.
“I anticipate making contributions with both the bat and ball, so let’s hope for positive outcomes”- Venkatesh Iyer
Despite being retained due to his outstanding debut season in 2021, the all-rounder couldn’t replicate his success in the following season. Nevertheless, he stood out as one of the few positive aspects for KKR in the forgettable 2023 season.
Venkatesh Iyer, frequently utilized as an impact player, amassed 404 runs with a strike rate of 145.85. Notably, he secured a memorable century against the Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium.
“It’s always exciting to be a part of KKR and I feel honoured and privileged to play for this amazing franchise. The ultimate goal is to win the trophy.”
”We know we have it in us to win it so we’re looking forward to going out there and putting our best foot forward. I’m looking forward to contributing with both bat and ball, so let’s hope for the best,” Iyer said.
“Whenever the captain would want me to bowl an over or two, I’ll always be there. Shreyas has always had that confidence in me and he trusts that I can get the job done for the team in pressure situations.” he concluded.
KKR is set to initiate their preparations for the upcoming season with a camp in Kolkata, starting on Friday, March 15.
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