IPL isn’t about Bollywood and after parties. Gautam Gambhir stated that players should not focus on off-field activities and instead search for methods to help the team win another title.
Gambhir, an experienced Indian opener who spent two years with the Lucknow Super Giants before returning home to Kolkata, was recruited by KKR, the team that won their only IPL title back in 2014, to serve as their trainer. Along with other KKR players, he attended the IPL 2024 players’ auction. Mitchell Starc was signed by the team for a record-breaking INR 24.75 crore.
“On Day 1, I was very clear that IPL cricket is serious business for me. It’s not about you, Bollywood, the after-party, or anything else like that. “It’s about playing competitive cricket, which is why I think this league is the hardest in the world because it’s proper cricket,” Gambhir stated on Star Sports.
The seasoned batsman emphasized the Indian Premier League’s global relevance.
“It is probably closest to international cricket as compared to any other league and if you want to be known as a successful franchise, you should be able to deliver on the cricket field,” that’s what he said.
KKR is only the third franchise to win multiple IPL titles, following Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. However, they have struggled in recent seasons, finishing seventh and failing to qualify for the playoffs.
Gambhir also spoke on Kolkata’s devoted supporters, which has supported the team throughout difficult times.
“I believe the supporters are really enthusiastic. We have to be honest with them. We need to attempt to put a smile on their faces because I’ve always believed that the most devoted supporters have been those from Kolkata since they’ve been through a lot in the first three years of the IPL,” Gambhir added.
The two-time IPL champion also stated that players should not focus on off-field activities and instead search for methods to help the club win another title.
“Obviously, it was the most prominent team as well. But I’ve always believed that it’s not all about the glamour. What we perform on the cricket field is all that matters, and KKR should not be renowned for their off-field activities. They should be known for what we do on the cricket field,” said the KKR coach.
Cummins stated that was a just conclusion, awarding Green the victory over Lyon as man of the match.
“Cam was amazing, he was really the difference in the end,” Cummins claimed.
“In my opinion, the manner he approached it with that goal really made the bowlers work harder on the first day.
“There was as much bounce as I’ve seen in any wicket for a long time but thankfully it spun which, with Nathan in our side, is always a pretty good thing.”
As Australia was bowled out for 164 in the second innings, Southee praised Glenn Phillips, the all-rounder who top scored with 71 in the first and earned career-best figures of 5-45 with his part-time off-spin.
