Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially announced that Shreyas Iyer will reassume his role as the team's captain for the upcoming 2024 Indian Premier League season. Iyer, who had to sit out the 2023 IPL due to an injury, is set to lead the team once again, following Nitish Rana's interim captaincy last season. Under Rana's leadership, KKR finished seventh in the league standings.
Shreyas Iyer's return to cricket was marked by his participation in the 2023 Asia Cup between September and October. He also played a pivotal role in India's journey to the final of the 2023 World Cup, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Additionally, Iyer made his comeback in the T20 International format in November during India's series against Australia, showcasing his readiness for competitive cricket once again.
“It was indeed unfortunate that Shreyas missed IPL 2023 due to injury. We are delighted that he’s back and at the helm as Captain. The way he has worked hard to recover from his injury and the form he has displayed is a testament to his character," KKR's CEO Venky Mysore said.
In a move that recognises his efforts and leadership in the previous season, Nitish Rana has been appointed as the vice-captain for KKR in the 2024 edition of the IPL. This decision not only honors Rana's contributions as a stand-in captain but also ensures continuity in the team's leadership structure.
"We are also grateful that Nitish had agreed to step into Shreyas’s shoes last season and did a great job. There’s no doubt Nitish as Vice Captain will support Shreyas in every possible way for the benefit of #TeamKKR," Mysore added.
Moreover, KKR has made another significant announcement last month, welcoming back Gautam Gambhir to the franchise in a mentorship role. Gambhir, a celebrated figure in KKR's history, led the team to two IPL championships in 2012 and 2014. After his release from the team in 2018 and subsequent retirement from cricket, Gambhir spent two years as a mentor with the Lucknow Super Giants in 2022 and 2023. His return to KKR is seen as a strategic move, bringing his experience and insights back to the franchise where he achieved considerable success as a player and leader.
“I believe the last season presented us with several challenges, including my absence due to injury. Nitish did a great job not only filling in for me but also with his commendable leadership. I am delighted that KKR has named him Vice Captain. No doubt it will strengthen the leadership group,” said Iyer.
With these key leadership positions secured and the strategic addition of Gambhir as a mentor, KKR is gearing up for a potentially strong showing in the 2024 IPL season.
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