Gautam Gambhir returns to KKR as mentor ahead of IPL 2024

Gambhir, who led KKR to win IPL twice (in 2012 and 2014), will join head coach Chandrakant Pandit in reconstructing the franchise, which is co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan.

Apart from winning the trophy twice, under Gambhir's stint as captain, the team qualified for the playoffs five times, and reached the finals of the Champions League T20 in 2014.

Speaking on his return, Gambhir said, "I am not an emotional person and not many things move me. But this is different. This is back to where it all started. Today, there is a lump in my throat and fire in my heart as I think about slipping into that purple and gold jersey once again.

"I am not only coming back to KKR but I am coming back to the city of joy. I am back. I am hungry. I am number 23. Ami KKR."

Welcoming Gambhir back to KKR, Shah Rukh Khan said, "Gautam has always been part of the family and this is our Captain coming back home in a different avatar as a "Mentor".

"He was sorely missed and now we all look forward to Chandu Sir and Gautam in instilling the never-say-die spirit and of sportsmanship they stand for, in creating magic with Team KKR."

Gambhir joined KKR after quitting Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where he was serving as the mentor.