Cricket

KKR vs MI Live Score: Narine's Exploits and Gambhir's Masterstroke Propel KKR Towards PlayoffsKolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are on the cusp of securing a playoff berth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 after a remarkable turnaround under the guidance of former skipper Gautam Gambhir as team mentor. With eight wins from 11 matches, KKR will seal their place in the top four with a victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) in their final home game of the season.The resurgence of Sunil Narine has been a key factor in KKR's success. The Trinidadian all-rounder has emerged as their leading run-getter, amassing 461 runs at a blistering strike rate of 183.66. His century and three fifties have provided KKR with a solid foundation in the power-plays.Alongside Narine, Englishman Phil Salt has also been in impressive form, scoring 429 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. The duo's explosive batting has allowed KKR to post six 200-plus totals from eight matches batting first. Narine's consistency has been particularly remarkable, with 32 sixes to his name, second only to Abhishek Sharma (35).Gambhir's decision to promote Narine as an opener alongside Salt has proven to be a masterstroke. The duo has given KKR the perfect platform to dominate the early overs, setting the stage for their middle-order to capitalize.Despite their batting prowess, KKR's bowling has been somewhat inconsistent, particularly that of Mitchell Starc. However, the emergence of young Angkrish Raghuvanshi at No. 3 and the impressive death bowling of Ramandeep Singh have helped to cover up for Starc's struggles.MI, on the other hand, have endured a disappointing season, languishing at the bottom of the standings with just three wins from 11 matches. They will be looking to end their campaign on a positive note, but face a daunting task against an in-form KKR side.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have emerged as the frontrunners in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, dominating the points table with 16 points from 12 matches. The resurgence of KKR has been largely attributed to the astute guidance of mentor and former captain Gautam Gambhir.Gambhir, who led KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, returned to the franchise as a mentor prior to the ongoing season. His presence has instilled a winning mentality within the team, which is now on the cusp of securing a playoff berth.During a recent interaction, a KKR fan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Gambhir, who was visibly moved by the gesture. The fan, overcome with emotion, implored Gambhir to remain with the franchise indefinitely."Please don't leave us again. We can't express how heartbroken we were when you left KKR," the fan said. "You are our heart. We keep you close to our heart. Please don't leave us ever, again."Since his return, Gambhir has been actively involved in the dugout, providing tactical advice to captain Shreyas Iyer. His decision to promote Sunil Narine as an opener alongside Phil Salt has proven to be a masterstroke.The duo has been instrumental in providing KKR with solid starts, laying the foundation for the team's impressive run-scoring. Narine, in particular, has been a revelation, emerging as the second-highest six-hitter in the tournament with 32 maximums.With one century and three fifties, Narine has also been KKR's leading run-getter, amassing 461 runs at a strike rate of 183.66. Salt, the World No.2 T20I batter, has contributed 429 runs at a strike rate of 183.33.Gambhir's influence has extended beyond the opening partnership. He has fostered a positive and cohesive team environment, which has been evident in KKR's consistent performances. The team's ability to adapt to different conditions and overcome challenges has been a testament to Gambhir's leadership and tactical acumen.As KKR continues its pursuit of a third IPL title, Gambhir's presence will undoubtedly be a key factor in their success. His experience, tactical brilliance, and unwavering commitment have made him an indispensable asset to the franchise.

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricket team batter, has expressed his admiration for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner Shah Rukh Khan, calling him the best owner he has ever worked with. Gambhir, who led KKR to two Indian Premier League (IPL) titles as captain, returns to the franchise in 2024 as a mentor.Gambhir's relationship with Khan dates back to 2011 when he first joined KKR. He praised Khan for his humility, groundedness, and non-interference in cricketing matters."I have a fabulous relationship with him. For me, he is the best owner I have worked with. And the reason is not just that he is humble, he is pretty grounded," Gambhir said on Sportskeeda."I don't think he has ever interfered in cricketing matters and it is a very big thing for someone like me because you get the freedom of decision-making. You have the freedom and trust that whatever decision I take, I know he's going to back me."Gambhir believes that the trust between him and Khan has been instrumental in their success."And more importantly, that's why we have got the results as well. My relationship with him is fantastic and not just now but since I first joined KKR in 2011.""But again as you said, SRK is an emotion, I think KKR is an emotion for me as well. That's why I feel that when any relationship starts on trust, that trust then goes a long way.""It's the trust between us because I know he will never involve himself in cricketing matters and he knows that any decision I take will be in the best interests of the team and not for anything else," he added.Gambhir's return to KKR as a mentor is expected to bring valuable experience and guidance to the team. His close relationship with Khan and his understanding of the franchise's culture will be key assets in his new role.

Gautam Gambhir's return to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has sparked a surge of nostalgia and heartfelt emotions among the team's loyal fanbase. The former KKR captain, who played a pivotal role in the franchise's two IPL titles, has received an outpouring of love and support from the Kolkata faithful.During a recent KKR event, a passionate fan expressed his deep bond with Gambhir, saying, "I'm one of your biggest fans. Just want to say, aap hamein chhod kar aur mat jaaiye. Aap ke jaane se humein jitna takleef hua hai, woh hum aapko samjha nahi sakte hai [We can't tell you how hurt we were when you left]. I want to dedicate a Bengali song to you: 'Tomaye hrid majhar rakhbo, chede debo na. Chere dile sonar gour aar toh paabona.' You are my heart; we keep you in our hearts. Please never leave us, don't hurt us. Please, sir, please!"Gambhir, visibly moved by the fan's heartfelt plea, expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support. His return to KKR, this time as a mentor, marks a homecoming for both player and fans, rekindling hopes and aspirations for future IPL glory.Working alongside head coach Chandrakant Pandit, Gambhir's influence has already been evident on the field. His strategic decisions, such as reinstating Sunil Narine as the opener, have yielded positive results, propelling KKR to new heights in the tournament.As KKR continue their quest for IPL success, Gambhir's presence serves as a source of inspiration and reassurance for the team and its supporters. His experience, leadership, and tactical acumen will be invaluable as KKR aim to add to their trophy cabinet.

In a highly anticipated clash, two-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face off against the struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) in their final home match of the season on Saturday. KKR, under the guidance of former skipper Gautam Gambhir as team mentor, has found a winning formula this season, sitting atop the standings with eight wins from 11 matches.KKR's success has been largely attributed to the explosive opening partnership of Sunil Narine and Phil Salt. Narine, the Trinidadian all-rounder, has been a revelation with the bat, scoring 461 runs at a strike rate of 183.66, including a century and three fifties. Salt, the English batter, has also contributed significantly with 429 runs at a strike rate of 183.33.The duo's consistent performances have allowed KKR to post six 200-plus totals from eight matches batting first. Narine's 32 sixes are second only to Abhishek Sharma (35) in the tournament.In contrast, MI, under Hardik Pandya's leadership, has become the first team to be eliminated from the playoffs race. Despite a morale-boosting win over Sunrisers Hyderabad, MI will be looking to salvage some pride in their remaining matches.Suryakumar Yadav has been in scintillating form for MI, scoring 56 and 102 not out in his last two innings. His performances augur well for Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup next month. However, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have struggled for runs, with Pandya failing to cross 10 in his last six innings.Pandya's poor form is a concern for India, as he is a key all-rounder in their T20 World Cup squad.

Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop has come to the defense of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Shreyas Iyer, who has faced criticism from fans despite the team's impressive performance this season.Bishop took to social media to question the double standards of fans who attribute KKR's wins to mentor Gautam Gambhir but blame Iyer for their losses. He highlighted Iyer's respectable record as captain during his previous seasons with the Delhi Capitals (DC)."Shreyas became DC captain in 2018 when GG stepped down after DC lost 5 of first 6 gms. DC then finished the season winning 4 of next 8 games. 2019 DC 3rd, 2020 DC 2nd. 2021 injury & only 8gms so Pant captained. To KKR 2022, new franchise, 7th. Missed 2023. 2024," Bishop tweeted.Bishop argued that if Gambhir receives praise for KKR's victories, then Iyer should not be solely blamed for their defeats. He also questioned whether fans would blame Gambhir if the team lost.Gambhir has been actively involved in the dugout since returning to KKR as a mentor, providing tactical advice to Iyer. However, Bishop believes that Iyer deserves credit for the team's success.KKR pacer Harshit Rana also acknowledged Gambhir's tactical brilliance at a recent press conference.On Sunday, Sunil Narine's blistering 81 off 39 balls helped KKR thrash Lucknow Super Giants by 98 runs and take top spot in the IPL table. The win almost guarantees KKR a play-off berth.

Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) resurgence to the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL) standings has been attributed to the strategic guidance of former captain Gautam Gambhir, who now serves as the team's mentor. Gambhir's insights, honed during his successful tenure as KKR skipper, have revitalized the franchise's performance, leading them to reclaim their dominant form in the tournament.Under Gambhir's leadership, KKR clinched the IPL title twice and secured playoff berths on five occasions between 2011 and 2017. Young pacer Harshit Rana acknowledged Gambhir's profound understanding of the game, stating, "He has a lot of knowledge on how to turn games in our favor, and it helps us a lot in the middle."Rana emphasized the team's adherence to Gambhir's preferred style of cricket, which focuses on strategic discipline and adaptability. "Not only this match, this entire season we have been focusing a lot on the style of cricket that Gautam Gambhir wants us to play," Rana remarked during a press conference following KKR's commanding victory over Lucknow Super Giants.In the latest triumph, KKR showcased their astute reading of the conditions, with Rana playing a pivotal role in restricting the opposition with figures of 3/24. Despite concerns over Mitchell Starc's economy rate, Rana expressed unwavering faith in the Australian speedster, highlighting his influential presence within the team.Reflecting on his aspirations, Rana expressed his ambition to represent India while maintaining a steadfast focus on delivering consistent performances for his franchise. "My aim is to play for India, but whatever franchise I play for, I try to give my best on the day of the match," he affirmed.Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants' Naveen Ul Haq conceded defeat against the brilliance of Sunil Narine's explosive innings, which propelled KKR to a daunting total. Naveen acknowledged Narine's exceptional batting display, lamenting the failure of their bowling plans to contain the West Indian all-rounder.Despite the setback, Naveen remained pragmatic, acknowledging the need to regroup and refocus for their upcoming fixtures. "Every team has a bad day, and we cannot keep focusing on that, we have to move on," he concluded, echoing the sentiment of resilience required in the demanding landscape of the IPL.

Gautam Gambhir Reveals the Batsman He Feared the Most in IPL: Rohit SharmaAhead of Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) IPL 2024 match against Mumbai Indians, former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir has opened up about the batsman who gave him the most sleepless nights during his time as skipper.In an interview with Star Sports, Gambhir revealed that Rohit Sharma was the only player he truly feared in the IPL. "In my entire IPL career as captain, only one player had given me sleepless nights, and that was Rohit Sharma. The only batsman I feared in IPL was Rohit Sharma. No Chris Gayle, no AB de Villiers, only Rohit Sharma because I knew that I had to have Plan A, Plan B and probably Plan C as well," said Gambhir.Gambhir explained that Sharma's ability to dominate any bowling attack made him a formidable opponent. "If Rohit is in, I don't think anyone can control him. I have never planned for any other batter in the IPL except Rohit Sharma."Gambhir's fear of Sharma was evident in his meticulous planning against the Mumbai Indians captain. "There have been times when I have seen the visuals and I would say 'fair enough, Plan A is fine'. But with Rohit Sharma, probably one night before (the match), I used to think if this doesn't work, I have to get the other plan; if Sunil (Narine) is going to bowl his four overs, who all are going to bowl the rest 16; and if I finish off Sunil (overs) early and Rohit is (still) there, he can hit 30 (runs) off one over as well."Gambhir's respect for Sharma is understandable given the latter's remarkable IPL record. Sharma has led Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles, the most by any captain in the tournament's history. He is also the all-time leading run-scorer in the IPL, with over 6,000 runs to his name.

Gautam Gambhir Praises CSK's Strategic Brilliance in Unleashing MS Dhoni's ProwessFormer Indian cricketer and current Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir has lauded the strategic brilliance of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in harnessing the unparalleled prowess of MS Dhoni in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Gambhir emphasized that CSK's tactical approach, particularly in assigning Dhoni the finisher's role with just 8-10 balls, has unleashed the legendary cricketer's potential to make an immediate impact on the game."It is a strategy of CSK (Dhoni facing just 8-10 balls) and that has given Dhoni the freedom. Different teams have different strategies and CSK has done this for the past 2-3 years. The freedom has allowed Dhoni to have an impact. When you play 20-25 balls you have that responsibility to consolidate, but when it's just 8-10 balls you can go out there and express yourself with freedom," expressed Gambhir in an interaction with Sportskeeda.Highlighting Dhoni's phenomenal performance in the ongoing IPL season, Gambhir underscored the leadership similarities between Dhoni and himself during their IPL rivalry. "I feel insecurity is the biggest reason for a player's failure. It's not about ability. If you don't have the ability you won't reach the first-class, IPL, or international level in the first place. So it is important to have a secure dressing room. A secure dressing room is a happy dressing room and it eventually becomes a winning dressing room," Gambhir remarked, reflecting on the conducive environment for players' success.Dhoni's batting prowess in the IPL 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable, with the veteran cricketer showcasing his unmatched skills as a finisher. Dhoni stands on the cusp of reaching a significant milestone of 250 sixes in the IPL. With a staggering strike rate of 229.16 in ten games, Dhoni's impact on CSK's fortunes has been undeniable.Despite a minor setback against Punjab Kings, where Dhoni (14 off 11) was run out off the final ball of the innings - his first dismissal in the season, his significance in guiding CSK through tense situations remains undiminished.