2012, 2014, or 2024? KKR Mentor Gautam Gambhir Picks His Most Cherished IPL Win [SK Match Ki Baat Exclusive]

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has revealed his favorite among the franchise’s three IPL triumphs, and it’s not surprising which one he picked. The former KKR captain, who led the team to their first title, explains why the 2012 victory holds a special place in his heart.

Kolkata Knight Riders clinched their maiden IPL title in 2012 by defeating Chennai Super Kings in a thrilling final. The match, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, saw KKR chase down a daunting target of 191. Manvinder Bisla’s explosive 89 off 48 balls and Jacques Kallis’s steady 69 off 49 guided them to victory. Gautam Gambhir, the then-captain, was instrumental in leading his team to this historic win.

During an exclusive chat on Sportskeeda’s Match Ki Baat, Gambhir was asked to choose his favorite IPL win among KKR’s three titles. Without hesitation, he chose the 2012 triumph.

“2012. Not just because I was the captain but because we had won for the first time,” Gambhir said. “When you win the first time, it’s incredibly special. It gives you the confidence that you can do it again. Until you achieve that first victory, there’s always a doubt. Once you win, you know that it’s possible to win again,” he elaborated.

KKR lifted their third IPL trophy at the same venue on Sunday, May 26, 2024, evoking strong emotions and nostalgia for Gambhir. Asked about his feelings after Venkatesh Iyer struck the winning runs in the 2024 final, the former India opener shared:

“It was quite emotional and not just because we won the tournament. It was emotional because our first win was also at Chepauk. I was the captain then. Returning to KKR as a mentor and winning the tournament at the same venue brought back a lot of memories.

“I don’t often show a lot of emotions, but this time was different. Returning to KKR after six years and winning the title at the same ground was very nostalgic,” Gambhir added.

The 2024 IPL final saw KKR dominate SunRisers Hyderabad. Bowling first, KKR restricted SRH to 113 and then chased down the target in just 10.3 overs.

“The Last Get-Together is Very Special” – Gambhir on Celebrations After IPL 2024 Win

Reflecting on the post-match celebrations, Gambhir noted that while the team usually has a get-together after every game, the one following the final was unique and highly emotional.

“We used to have a get-together after every match, but the one after the final was different. When you achieve your goal, there’s a mix of happiness, satisfaction, and emotion. The last two months have been full of highs and lows, frustrations, and joys. These emotions are best felt in the dressing room,” Gambhir said.

“The last get-together is very special and very emotional,” the KKR mentor concluded.

Mitchell Starc was named Player of the Match for his stellar bowling figures of 2-14 in the final, while Sunil Narine was awarded the Most Valuable Player for his impressive all-round performance, scoring 488 runs and taking 17 wickets.