'Credit has to go to Abhishek Nayar' - Varun Chakravarthy and Venkatesh Iyer glorify assistant coach's role in IPL 2024 win

In cricket, as with many aspects of life, the contributions of those behind the scenes often go unnoticed. Among these unsung heroes, the coaching staff stands out as an indispensable cornerstone to a team's on-field endeavours.

In the aftermath of Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) commanding triumph over the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 final, scenes of jubilation unfolded with players ecstatically celebrating with fervent KKR fans. As a result, broadcasters seized the opportunity to conduct impromptu player interviews. Regarding their immediate feelings and the euphoria of securing the title, Varun Chakravarthy, KKR's standout bowler of the season with 21 wickets to his tally, emphasized that his primary focus was on acknowledging the pivotal contribution of assistant coach, Abhishek Nayar. He believes that Nayar worked hard to nurture and strengthen the Indian contingent within the franchise.

"All I can think right now is of the person who built this Indian core: Abhishek Nayar. 'Please come here'," Chakravarthy said, asking the former Mumbai batter and assistant coach of KKR to join them.

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Since 2018, Nayar has been an integral figure at KKR, focusing on the development of emerging Indian talents. Notably, he has mentored youngsters like Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, among others. The standout performer with the bat on final's night, Venkatesh Iyer, whose blistering 52* off 26 balls propelled KKR to a swift victory, acknowledged Nayar's contribution. He lavished praise on the 40-year-old, emphasizing his deserving of immense credit and recognition for his tireless and diligent efforts with the franchise. 

"As Varun mentioned, credit has to go to Abhishek Nayar. You know certain things go unnoticed. I'll make sure that they don't because that guy deserves all the credit in the world for the way he's been working for this franchise," Iyer told the broadcasters after the game.

I can't express how happy I am: Nayar

In response to inquiries about his emotions following the win, Abhishek Nayar revealed that it held immense significance for him. Recalling his maiden IPL season with Mumbai Indians way back in 2008, he shared that this victory marked his first championship in 17 years, commending the team for their contributions and expressing heartfelt gratitude. Reflecting on Russell's standout performance during the all-important match, he described the allrounder's performance as an incredibly ethereal experience for him. 

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"It means everything. It has taken a very long time. Personally, started playing IPL in the first season. It's taken me 16 years before I got my championship, but I'm really happy for the boys. I can't express how happy I am. Can't express it, with the big man (Russell) turning up as usual, but it's the most surreal feeling that I've had in a very long time," Nayar said.