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KKR Faces Captaincy Dilemma Amid Backroom Staff Departures

By October 21, 2024 0

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), reigning champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), face a challenging situation ahead of the upcoming season. The departure of Gautam Gambhir, Abhishek Nayar, and Ryan ten Doeschate to the Indian cricket team has left significant voids in the KKR dugout.

While Dwayne Bravo has been appointed as mentor, the team still needs to fill the assistant coach and academy head positions. Additionally, the captaincy role remains uncertain.

Shreyas Iyer, acquired by KKR for Rs 12.25 crore at the 2022 auction, is a potential candidate for the captaincy. However, the franchise is reportedly willing to retain him but not as their top retention.

Andre Russell is the frontrunner for retention with a hefty price tag. The all-rounder was previously retained for Rs 12 crore and is likely to receive a substantial raise.

If Iyer is not satisfied with his role in KKR, he could explore other options. Several teams, including Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Delhi Capitals, are in need of a captain, particularly an Indian one.

Punjab Kings, with Ricky Ponting as head coach, may be interested in Iyer due to his successful partnership with Ponting at Delhi Capitals. Delhi Capitals could also consider Iyer, as Rishabh Pant has requested to step down as skipper.

Last year, a section of the KKR camp favored Nitish Rana as captain in Iyer’s absence. However, the franchise announced Iyer as captain before the tournament, raising eyebrows.

KKR, co-owned by Shah Rukh Khan, advocates for a smaller auction and more Right to Match (RTM) options. They are likely to utilize this strategy at the upcoming auction.

Other potential retention options for KKR include Rinku Singh, Harshit Rana, Mitchell Starc, and Varun Chakravarthy. The team’s captaincy decision will be closely monitored by other franchises.

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Mitchell Starc Lauds Gautam Gambhir's Tactical Brilliance

Mitchell Starc Lauds Gautam Gambhir’s Tactical Brilliance

By October 14, 2024 0

Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has heaped praise on India coach Gautam Gambhir, describing him as a brilliant strategist who prioritizes the team’s needs and seeks to gain an edge through tactical adjustments. Starc’s admiration stems from his experience working with Gambhir as a mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) earlier this year.

Under Gambhir’s guidance, KKR enjoyed a dominant season, culminating in their first IPL title in a decade. Starc was impressed by Gambhir’s ability to analyze opponents and devise strategies to exploit their weaknesses. “He’s always thinking about the opponent and how to get them out as a bowling attack or how to score runs as a batting attack,” Starc said.

Gambhir’s focus extends beyond individual players, emphasizing the importance of team cohesion and identifying subtle adjustments that can provide an advantage. “It’s not just individual players, it’s always about the team focus and how to get on top of little things that he might see in techniques or in a field placement or anything like that,” Starc added.

KKR acquired Starc for a record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore, making him the most expensive buy in IPL history. Despite a modest league stage performance, Starc proved his worth with match-winning spells in the knockout rounds. “The nine weeks that I spent with him were fantastic. In a T20 setup, I know that he’s got some good things,” Starc said.

However, the two will find themselves on opposite sides when Australia hosts India in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting in Perth next month. Starc acknowledged that Gambhir’s tactical acumen will pose a significant challenge for the Australian team.

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KKR Secures Harshit Rana at Bargain Price for IPL 2025

KKR Secures Harshit Rana at Bargain Price for IPL 2025

By October 12, 2024 0

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have received a significant boost ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction with the potential retention of uncapped fast bowler Harshit Rana at a cost-effective price of Rs 4 crore.

Rana, despite his impressive domestic performances and contributions to KKR’s title-winning campaign in 2023, remains uncapped due to a viral infection that prevented him from making his international debut in the third T20I against Bangladesh.

This unfortunate circumstance has worked in KKR’s favor, as they can now retain Rana at a significantly lower cost than if he had made his international debut. The uncapped player retention rule allows teams to secure the services of uncapped players for a maximum of Rs 4 crore.

Rana’s impressive domestic record and his contributions to KKR’s success make him a valuable asset for the team. In the 2023 IPL season, he claimed 19 wickets in 13 matches, playing a crucial role in KKR’s run to their third title.

KKR’s decision to retain Rana at this price could be a strategic move, allowing them to invest more in other key areas of the squad while keeping a promising young player on their roster.

Rana’s international debut may still be on the horizon, as he has been named as one of the traveling reserves for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand at home. However, with pace sensation Mayank Yadav and experienced seamer Prasidh Krishna also among the reserves, Rana’s chances of making his debut in the Test series appear slim.

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Rinku Singh’s “God’s Plan” Tattoo: A Symbol of Transformation and Destiny

By October 5, 2024 0

Rinku Singh, the rising star of Indian cricket and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has unveiled the profound meaning behind his new “God’s Plan” tattoo. The tattoo, which features a circle representing the sun and five sixes, symbolizes a pivotal moment in his career that transformed his life.

During the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL), Rinku’s stunning performance against the Gujarat Titans, where he smashed five consecutive sixes, catapulted him into the limelight. This extraordinary feat not only secured a crucial win for KKR but also marked a turning point in his cricketing journey.

“I keep saying ‘God’s Plan.’ I designed my tattoo based on that,” Rinku explained. “The main aspect of the tattoo is the representation of the five sixes I hit in the IPL. It changed my life, so I thought I would include them in the tattoo.”

Rinku’s inclusion in India’s T20I squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh is a testament to his remarkable talent and the impact of his IPL heroics. The three-match series, starting on Sunday, will provide Rinku with an opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video on social media where Rinku shared the story behind his meaningful tattoo. The video highlights the significance of the five sixes and the profound impact they have had on his life.

Rinku’s journey to the Indian team has been marked by perseverance and determination. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, he has remained steadfast in his pursuit of cricketing excellence. His new tattoo serves as a constant reminder of his resilience and the belief that everything happens for a reason.

As Rinku prepares to represent India in the T20I series against Bangladesh, he carries with him the hopes and aspirations of a nation. His “God’s Plan” tattoo is a symbol of his unwavering faith and the belief that his destiny is in the hands of a higher power.

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IPL Retention Rule Changes: KKR, SRH Set to Retain Starc, Cummins

IPL Retention Rule Changes: KKR, SRH Set to Retain Starc, Cummins

By September 30, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has announced significant changes to its retention rules, allowing franchises to retain up to six players ahead of the 2025 auction. This strategic move will enable teams to secure top international players like Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, who have proven their worth as world-class pacers.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are expected to benefit from these rule changes. KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan has been vocal about his desire to retain eight players, while SRH co-owner Kavya Maran has advocated for removing the cap on retaining foreign players.

Under the new rules, franchises can retain a maximum of five capped players and up to two uncapped players. This flexibility allows teams to tailor their retentions to their specific needs. SRH, for instance, can now retain overseas players like Cummins, Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen, and Aiden Markram. KKR, on the other hand, can focus on retaining domestic stars like Shreyas Iyer, Rinku Singh, and Sunil Narine.

Starc, who was acquired by KKR for a record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore in the 2024 auction, is a prime example of the value that top international players bring to IPL teams. Despite an inconsistent season, he delivered a standout performance in the final, earning him the Player of the Match award.

The updated retention rules give franchises greater flexibility and strategic options. They can now retain a core group of players while also targeting specific players in the auction. This will likely lead to more competitive bidding and a more dynamic IPL landscape.

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Dwayne Bravo Appointed Mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders

Dwayne Bravo Appointed Mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders

By September 29, 2024 0

Dwayne Bravo, the former West Indies captain and renowned all-rounder, has expressed his gratitude to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) co-owner Shah Rukh Khan and the management for appointing him as the franchise’s mentor. Bravo’s appointment extends to KKR’s sister franchises in the Caribbean Premier League, Major League Cricket, and ILT20.

In a heartfelt video message, Bravo thanked his former team, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), for their support and blessings as he embarks on this new chapter in his coaching career. Bravo, who retired from the IPL in 2021, served as the franchise’s bowling coach in the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

“I want to say a big, big thank you to the Knight Riders family and the management for trusting me, giving me the opportunity to be a part of a very special franchise,” Bravo said. “I also want to thank the management and staff of the Chennai Super Kings for giving me the blessings to move on and carry on in my journey.”

Bravo recalled a message from KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, who encouraged him to continue “partying and winning trophies” in the years to come. “So now, with that being said, I look forward to doing my best and I look forward to doing great things with the team in Purple,” Bravo added.

Bravo’s stint with KKR marks his second coaching role in the IPL. He joined CSK in 2011, retired from the franchise in 2022, and returned in 2023 as the bowling coach. The decorated Caribbean star has lifted four IPL titles with CSK in various roles.

With 183 wickets, Bravo is the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history. He is also the first player to win two purple caps in the tournament, in 2013 and 2015. Bravo’s appointment as KKR mentor is a testament to his vast experience and leadership qualities, which are expected to guide the franchise to future success.

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Dwayne Bravo Joins Kolkata Knight Riders as Mentor, Ends CSK Journey

Dwayne Bravo Joins Kolkata Knight Riders as Mentor, Ends CSK Journey

By September 27, 2024 0

Dwayne Bravo, the legendary West Indies all-rounder, has bid farewell to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after a remarkable journey that spanned four IPL titles. He will now embark on a new chapter as a mentor for defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) from the 2025 season onwards.

Bravo, who turns 41 in October, will replace Gautam Gambhir, who recently took over as India’s head coach until 2027. The move comes a day after Bravo announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Bravo recently met with KKR CEO Venky Mysore during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) before agreeing to the contract. In addition to KKR, he will also oversee all franchises under the Knight Riders umbrella in various T20 leagues, including Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20).

“DJ Bravo joining us is an exciting development,” Mysore said in a statement. “His relentless drive to win, along with his vast experience and deep knowledge, will greatly benefit our franchise and players.”

Bravo expressed his excitement about the new role, saying, “I’ve been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in the CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate. The owners’ passion, the professionalism of the management, and the family-like environment make it a special place.”

This will be Bravo’s second coaching stint in the IPL. After retiring from the IPL as a player in 2022, he joined CSK as their bowling coach for the 2023 season. Having won the IPL three times as a player, Bravo continued his success in his first coaching assignment, guiding CSK to victory over defending champions Gujarat Titans in 2023.

Widely regarded as one of the best death bowlers in T20 cricket, Bravo is the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history and the first player to win two purple caps in the tournament. With over 500 T20 appearances to his name, he is known for his tactical acumen and motivational skills, qualities that earned him the West Indies captaincy.

Bravo retired from international cricket after the 2021 T20 World Cup but continued to play in T20 leagues. He also played a key role as a consultant coach for Afghanistan during the 2024 T20 World Cup, helping the team reach the semi-finals for the first time.

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Kumar Sangakkara in Talks with KKR for Mentor Role Amid Rajasthan Royals Shake-Up

Kumar Sangakkara in Talks with KKR for Mentor Role Amid Rajasthan Royals Shake-Up

By September 6, 2024 0

Rahul Dravid’s appointment as coach of the Rajasthan Royals has triggered a significant shake-up within the franchise’s management. Former Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour is reportedly set to join Dravid’s support staff, prompting speculation that Director of Cricket Operations Kumar Sangakkara is seeking an exit.

According to reports, Sangakkara has initiated talks with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the role of mentor, potentially replacing Gautam Gambhir, who recently became India’s head coach. KKR is undergoing a major overhaul of its support staff, with Gambhir and assistant coach Abhishek Nayar joining the Indian team.

Sangakkara has been instrumental in Rajasthan’s recent success, helping the team reach the IPL final in 2022 and finish third in the 2023 season. His departure would mark a significant loss for the Royals.

If Sangakkara joins KKR, it would complete a full circle of coaching changes involving him, Gambhir, and Dravid. Gambhir replaced Dravid as India’s head coach, while Dravid is now replacing Gambhir at the Royals.

Sangakkara’s potential move to KKR would also align with the franchise’s desire to strengthen its coaching setup. With Chandrakant Pandit as head coach and Bharat Arun as bowling coach, KKR is looking to add experience and expertise to its support staff.

Sangakkara’s decision is expected to be finalized in the coming days. His departure from Rajasthan would leave a void in the franchise’s management, but it could also open up opportunities for other talented individuals to join the Royals.

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Gautam Gambhir's Mentorship Key to KKR's IPL Success and LSG's Foundation

Gautam Gambhir’s Mentorship Key to KKR’s IPL Success and LSG’s Foundation

By August 30, 2024 0

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged victorious in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the third time this year, defeating SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final. This triumph marked their first IPL success since 2014, and former India head coach Gautam Gambhir played a pivotal role in all three of KKR’s victories.

In 2012 and 2014, Gambhir captained KKR to two IPL titles. This year, he transitioned into a mentorship role, joining KKR from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where he had also served as a mentor.

Gambhir’s contributions to LSG were significant, as he helped build the team from the ground up. LSG owner Sanjeev Goenka acknowledged Gambhir’s role in the franchise’s success, particularly in the team’s first auction.

“Gautam has played a significant role in building the side’s foundation,” Goenka said. “If you consider our first auction successful, it is only because of Gautam. We got the franchise barely two weeks before the auctions. We did not have an analyst or a research team. It was all Gautam Gambhir’s team. He did everything and put together a very balanced team.”

LSG qualified for the IPL playoffs in its first two seasons before finishing seventh in IPL 2024. Ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auctions, LSG appointed former India pacer Zaheer Khan as the franchise’s mentor.

Zaheer expressed his commitment to serving the team in every capacity possible, including bowling. He emphasized the importance of decision-making and building on the team’s existing strengths.

“It is a team game, so I will be serving the team in every capacity possible, and yes, it includes bowling,” Zaheer said. “When you see LSG, their journey is only three years but they are as comparable to the teams who have played the IPL for 17-18 years. The building blocks are in place and we need to take them forward.”

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Shreyas Iyer Channels Sunil Narine, Surprises with Mystery Spin in Buchi Babu Tournament

Shreyas Iyer Channels Sunil Narine, Surprises with Mystery Spin in Buchi Babu Tournament

By August 28, 2024 0

Shreyas Iyer’s Surprising Bowling Debut in Buchi Babu Tournament Draws Comparisons to Sunil Narine

Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has surprised fans and spectators alike with his bowling action during the ongoing Buchi Babu Tournament. In a match between TNCA XI and Mumbai, Mumbai captain Sarfaraz Khan handed the ball to Iyer in the 90th over of TNCA’s innings.

Iyer’s bowling action drew immediate comparisons to his Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) teammate Sunil Narine. Like Narine, Iyer gripped the ball behind his back and approached the bowling crease with a unique, mystery spin action.

While Iyer’s attempt at emulating Narine’s bowling style did not yield any wickets, it captivated the audience. His unique action, reminiscent of his IPL teammate, instantly caught the eye of many fans, who were treated to an unexpected spectacle.

The Buchi Babu Tournament 2024 holds significance for Iyer and his Mumbai teammate, Suryakumar Yadav, as they eye a potential Test comeback for Team India. Their performances in this tournament could potentially influence the selectors’ decisions and open doors for their return to the Indian Test team.

Iyer’s bowling debut, though brief and wicketless, has added an unexpected twist to the Buchi Babu Tournament. It remains to be seen whether he will continue to experiment with his bowling in future matches, but his unique action has certainly left a lasting impression on fans and spectators alike.

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