Kolkata Knight Riders’ resurgence in the 2024 season has been nothing short of remarkable, with the team securing a playoff berth with two games remaining. This turnaround is largely attributed to the return of their former captain, Gautam Gambhir, as a mentor.
Gambhir, who led KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, has brought a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His impact was evident in the team’s 18-run victory over Mumbai Indians at Eden Gardens, a result that sealed their playoff spot.
KKR dominated the match for the majority of the time, reducing MI to 92 for 5 in 12.1 overs. The visitors faced an uphill battle, needing 66 runs off the remaining 23 balls. However, young Tilak Varma emerged as a lone warrior, threatening to single-handedly chase down the target.
Varma smashed 15 runs against Harshit Rana in the 14th over and continued his onslaught with two sixes and a four off Andre Russell in the penultimate over. The equation seemed possible, but Rana held his nerve, dismissing Varma and Naman Dhir in a space of three balls, restricting MI to 139 for 8.
Gambhir’s reaction to Varma’s dismissal was a testament to the team’s hard-fought victory. The former Kolkata captain broke into a rare smile, a moment that left commentators gobsmacked.
This win not only helped KKR secure a double against MI but also guaranteed them a top-two finish. The team’s final game at Eden Gardens this season was a memorable one, and their journey to the playoffs promises more exciting cricket in the days to come.
