'My idol': Stand-in KKR captain Nitish Rana welcomes Gautam Gambhir with open arms

Gautam Gambhir bid adieu to Lucknow Super Giants as the former Indian captain has joined Kolkata Knight Riders as a mentor. Gambhir led KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014 and will be back on his old hunting ground ahead of the IPL 2024. The two time champions will seek a fresh start in this new season.

3 things you need to know

• Gautam Gambhir joined KKR as a mentor
• Gambhir led the team to two IPL titles
• The IPL auction will be held in December

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Gautam Gambhir joined KKR as a mentor

KKR earlier issued a statement confirming the development. 

"Venky Mysore, CEO of KKR, announced today (Wednesday, November 22) that Gautam Gambhir will return to KKR as "Mentor" and join hands with head coach Chandrakant Pandit.

Gambhir's previous association with KKR from 2011-17 was nothing short of historic. During this period, the team won the title twice, qualified for the playoffs five times, and reached the finals of the Champions League T20 in 2014."

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Nitish Rana heaped praises on Gautam Gambhir

KKR stand-in captain Nitish Rana welcomed the former Indian skipper with open arms as he expressed his happiness through a post on social media. 

He posted, “As a kid watching cricket, I never imagined I'd one day share the field and wear the same colors as my idol, @GautamGambhir bhai. Now, having him as our mentor at @KKRiders is nothing short of a dream. His leadership led to glory, and I can't wait to learn and grow under his guidance. Here's to the beginning of an incredible journey!”

Gambhir will provide his expertise and will work closely with the KKR coach. Ahead ofd the IPL 2024 auction it remains to be seen how things will pan out for the Kolkata based franchise.