Abhishek Nayar of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) praised team mentor Gautam Gambhir for his influence on the players ahead of their IPL 2024 match against the Chennai Super Kings.
Gambhir left the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to join the franchise that he led to two IPL titles. Since Gambhir’s arrival, KKR has emerged as a formidable opponent. They are one of two teams that have yet to be defeated in the current season.
Nayar discussed Gambhi’s impact on the team on the eve of their match against five-time champions CSK.
“A lot of this goes without saying. See, there is no substitute for experience. There is no substitute for a captain who has won two IPL championships with this team.
So, whether you’re a mentor or on the field, I believe having GG (Gambhir) in the dugout makes a big difference and a big boost for everyone in the dugout because you know you can go back and talk about him, his own experiences, and what he did as a captain,” Nayar said in the pre-match press conference.
Andre Russell and Sunil Narine, two key players who struggled last season, have been riding high after some outstanding performances.
Narine opened against the Delhi Capitals and scored 85 runs off 39 deliveries. Russell made a cameo and raced to 41 in 19 balls.
While discussing the star duo’s recent performances, Nayar emphasized Gambhir’s role in their success.
“I feel bad for the players who played with him; Sunny (Narine) and Russell can tell the difference. Sunny coming in and opening now and getting runs, I think having someone with that personality and aura in that dressing room always makes a difference,” Nayar said.
KKR will look to maintain their perfect record against CSK on Monday at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium.
