Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir's debut as Kolkata Knight Riders' mentor was marked by a stunning title victory in the just-concluded edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. KKR defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final by 8 wickets to end their 10-year-long trophy drought. Now reports reveal that it was Shah Rukh Khan who convinced Gambhir to return to the Knights camp.
Shah Rukh Khan convinces Gautam Gambhir to become KKR mentor
As per a report from Dainik Jagran, Gautam Gambhir and Shah Rukh Khan would often meet in Mannat between 2018 and 2022. However, after a blank cheque offer from the Bollywood sensation in 2023, Gambhir decided to leave Lucknow Super Giants after spending two years with them. He also asked the ex-KKR captain to be the Knights for the next 10 years.
ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal faces first round exit in French Open, says 'I'm not 100% sure if it's the last time but...'
ALSO READ: A look at India's T20 World Cup squads from 2007 to 2024, only one player remains a constant
When Gambhir was thinking of leaving LSG, Shah Rukh did not want to miss this opportunity and invited him to his house and had a chat for over 2 hours after which, the two-time IPL winning captain decided to return to KKR.
LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka shocked by the news
The owner of the Lucknow franchise, Sanjiv Goenka was not aware of this development and was left baffled and surprised once it happened. LSG made it to the playoffs under Gambhir's mentorship for two consecutive years. However, could not seal their spot in the top four following his exit.
Currently, Gambhir is considered as the front-runner in the race to become the next Indian head coach but if he takes this role, he would have to end his partnership with KKR. As for now, there's no confirmation on the news but Gambhir was seen having a chat with Jay Shah after the IPL 2024 Final but it was not clear what both individuals were talking about.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
'Have been taught a lesson': Rassie van der Dussen slams South Africa for clean sweep loss against West Indies ahead of T20 World Cup 2024
'Ladke pagal hore hai dance karne ke liye': Gautam Gambhir interrupts coach Chandrakant Pandit's speech midway to leave everyone in splits
