Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has been announced as the next head coach of the Indian National cricket team, succeeding Rahul Dravid, the victorious T20 World Cup head coach. In light of his new role, Gambhir posted an emotional video bidding farewell to the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with whom he has shared a long and successful association.
Gambhir’s journey with KKR began in 2011 when he joined the team as a player. During his tenure, he led the franchise to two IPL trophies, and most recently, as a mentor, guided them to their third title in 2024. His contributions both on and off the field have left an indelible mark on the team and its fans.
Gautam Gambhir Shares Emotional Farewell to KKR on Twitter
In his heartfelt farewell video, Gambhir expressed his deep connection with Kolkata and its people. He said, “I smile when you smile, I cry when you cry, I win when you win, I lose when you lose, I dream when you dream, I achieve when you achieve, I believe with you and become with you. I am you Kolkata, I am just one of you. I know your struggles and I know where it hurts. Rejections have hurt me, but like you, I wake up with hope. I face challenges daily, but like you, I haven’t been defeated. They tell me to be famous, but I aim to be a winner. I am you, Kolkata; I am one of you.”
Gambhir’s transition to his new role as the head coach of the Indian National team is met with high expectations. His first assignment will be the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at the end of July, where he will aim to continue the successful legacy left by his predecessor.
As Gambhir embarks on this new chapter in his cricketing career, fans and players alike will remember his immense contributions to KKR, cherishing the memories of the victories and the spirit he brought to the team.