Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wasted no time in securing their spot in the 2024 IPL final. They delivered a crushing blow to the high-flying Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 1 on May 21, showcasing their dominance throughout the match. KKR's bowling attack shone, restricting Hyderabad to a not-so impressive total of 159 runs. Their batting line-up then chased down the target without breaking much sweat, sealing the victory in just 13.4 overs.
This win comes as no surprise, considering KKR's consistent performance throughout the season. They finished the league stage at the top of the table with a commanding 20 points.
Gambhir's return turned KKR's fortune
Many experts credit the return of Gautam Gambhir, KKR's two-time IPL-winning captain, as a key factor in the team's success. His presence as a mentor seems to have revitalized the team's strategy, particularly with the reintroduction of Sunil Narine as the opening batsman. This move proved highly effective, with Narine emerging as KKR's leading run-scorer so far this season, amassing a total of 482 runs in just 14 matches.
Gambhir's influence vs Iyer's captaincy, a debate on KKR's success
While the experts widely attribute KKR's exceptional season to the return of mentor Gautam Gambhir, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif offers a different perspective. Kaif argues that the true catalyst behind their success is Shreyas Iyer's exceptional leadership on the field. He emphasizes Iyer's skillful management of the team and his ability to make crucial decisions during matches.
“We always talk about (Gautam) Gambhir, but he can't enter the field... in the rope with the players. Iyer has been there with the players, and it will help him grow as a person and player,” Kaif told PTI.
"He missed out on the (T20) World Cup this year (beginning in the US and West Indies next month), but certainly it's great learning for him, captaining the team, leading it to the finals. He has a great future ahead," Kaif further said.
"I think KKR is a very well-balanced side. Tournament-winning team has to have good bowlers, KKR has got the bowlers. You saw how (Mitchell) Starc bowled against (SRH in Qualifier 1), it's a balanced side. KKR has got all bases covered in terms of batting and bowling. They are the team to beat in IPL, they are way ahead," Kaif concluded.
KKR will lock horns with the winners of IPL 2024 Qualifier 2 in the final. The IPL 2024 Qualifier 2 will see Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad taking on each other at Chepauk on May 24.
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