Watch: Iyer Recreates Messi Moment as KKR Clinch IPL 2024 Title

Iyer Recreates Messi Moment: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinched the Indian Premier League (IPL) title for the third time, ending a decade-long drought, with a commanding victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 8 wickets in the final held in Chennai on Sunday, May 26. The Shreyas Iyer-led side displayed dominance throughout the 2024 edition of the IPL, culminating in a triumphant campaign that brought immense joy to their fans.

Shreyas Iyer’s Captains with Flair

Iyer, who had previously led Delhi Capitals to their first final in 2020, infused a football flavor into the celebrations by recreating Lionel Messi’s iconic FIFA World Cup celebration. After receiving the trophy from BCCI President Roger Binny and Secretary Jay Shah, Iyer signaled his teammates to wait as he slowly approached them, mirroring Messi’s memorable walk. The KKR players understood the gesture, moving slightly away to allow Iyer to savor the moment before lifting the trophy. He was soon joined by key players Sunil Narine, Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, and Harshit Rana, much to the delight of the fans who immediately recognized the homage to Messi.

A Team Effort

The victory resulted from a collective effort from the entire KKR squad. From head coach Chandrakant Pandit, mentor Gautam Gambhir, and assistant coach Abhishek Nayar to the team’s formidable six-pronged bowling attack, each member played a crucial role in securing the title. KKR’s journey to the championship was marked by consistent performances and strategic brilliance, proving them to be deserving champions.

Celebrations and Reflections

The atmosphere in Chennai was electric as KKR fans celebrated their team’s long-awaited success. The moment was particularly poignant for long-time supporters who had waited 10 years for another taste of IPL glory. Shreyas Iyer’s unique celebration added a special touch to the victory, creating a memorable end to a remarkable season.

As KKR lifts the IPL trophy for the third time, the achievement is a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and strategic prowess. This victory breaks their decade-long title drought and sets a new benchmark for the franchise’s future aspirations.