Former Indian captain Gautam Gambhir is back in the spotlight after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lifted their third IPL title under his mentorship. KKR broke their title drought by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 Final. Following his successful return to KKR, Gambhir, known for his tactical expertise and leadership skills, is now seen as the leading candidate to succeed Rahul Dravid as the India's next head coach. His potential move to coach the Indian cricket team is fueled by KKR's exceptional performance in the IPL 2024 season, during which they claimed the title under his guidance. The significant impact of the former World Cup winner was especially noted by KKR pacer Harshit Rana amid discussions of Gambhir assuming the role of India's head coach next month.
Harshit Rana praises Gautam Gambhir for his commitment to KKR's IPL 2024 triumph
Rana acknowledged Gambhir's dedication and sacrifices as pivotal for the team's triumph in IPL 2024. Rana, a crucial player in KKR's championship run with 19 wickets in 13 matches, tying as the team's joint-second-leading wicket-taker, recently shared his thoughts on Gambhir's significant contributions during an episode of Shubhankar Mishra's podcast, 'Unplugged'. He disclosed that Gambhir had made considerable sacrifices, including stepping away from politics, to fully commit to KKR’s quest for the trophy. His dedication and hard work were instrumental in leading the Kolkata team to their victory in IPL 2024.
The IPL 2024 victory not only solidified Gautam Gambhir's reputation as an effective IPL mentor, after leading Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to consecutive playoff appearances, but it also strengthened his case for becoming the next Indian head coach. The BCCI is anticipated to decide on this matter shortly, and many expect Gambhir to be a top contender. As Gambhir potentially gears up for this new role with his strategic acumen and capacity to motivate players, positioning him as an apt successor to Dravid, Rana stated that the KKR mentor merits full recognition. He expressed that the team should be regarded as "Gambhir's team," and that there's nothing inappropriate in acknowledging that.
The show's host questioned Rana on his views about people referring to KKR as ‘Gambhir’s team’, noting that captain Shreyas Iyer isn't receiving as much recognition. The star pacer referenced other teams, such as CSK and RCB, which are famously associated with MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, respectively, and queried the appropriateness of labeling KKR as ‘Gambhir’s team’. Rana's response to this question is now trending widely.
“Gambhir Bhaiya left his political career and everything behind for KKR. He left politics and came back to KKR, and he worked day and night hard just to make KKR win the trophy. He is so involved in KKR. I am genuinely telling you that he did his best to win this trophy. He left everything just to win the KKR trophy. So, sir, why shouldn't he get this honour?," Rana said.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Veteran all-rounder announces sudden retirement after team's elimination from T20 World Cup 2024
T20 World Cup 2024: Complete Super 8 schedule, check date, time and venue for all confirmed clashes
