Having Gautam Gambhir in the dugout makes a big difference: KKR assistant coach Abhishek Nayar

Gautam Gambhir joined the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as their mentor ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. He has already made his presence felt as the former two-time champions have won their first three matches for the first time in a season.

Abhishek Nayar, who is the assistant coach of the Knight Riders, lauded Gambhir for the positive influence he has had on the team. According to Nayar, Gambhir's presence has been a huge factor behind KKR's strong start to the campaign.

“There is no substitute for experience or a captain who has won two IPL championships with a franchise. Regardless as a mentor or on the field, having GG in the dugout makes a big difference and is a big boost for the players," Nayar said in the pre-match press conference ahead of Kolkata's next clash against Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Monday, April 8.

Gambhir led KKR to the coveted title in 2012 and 2014. During his illustrious captaincy tenure in Kolkata, Andre Russell and Sunil Narine were two of his most lethal weapons. The latter, especially, played a huge role during the triumphant campaigns in 2012 and 2014. Both the West Indies all-rounders did not have a memorable time last season. However, the picture has changed drastically in IPL 2024.

Russell has scored 105 runs from two innings at an average of 105 and a strike rate of 238.64 and has also picked up five wickets. Narine, on the other hand, has amassed 134 runs at an average of 44.67 and a strike rate of 206.15 and bagged three wickets as well. Nayar once again credited Gambhir for the resurgence of the two IPL legends.

"Players who have played under him, like Sunny (Sunil Narine) and (Andre) Russell, you can see the difference, with Sunny scoring runs as an opener. So, all of it matters," Nayar said.

Also Read: IPL 2024: Kolkata Knight Riders' strongest predicted playing XI against Chennai Super Kings

Angkrish Raghuvanshi's work ethic, besides skill sets, the willingness to work hard matters: Abhishek Nayar

18-year-old Angkrish Raghuvanshi played a glorious knock in his first IPL innings in KKR's last game against Delhi Capitals. The youngster scored 54 off 27 balls and hit some audacious strokes during his knock. Nayar praised the youngster for his work ethic and eagerness to improve every day.

“His work ethic, besides skill sets, the willingness to work hard matters because that is a sort of talent that not everyone possesses. Skill is something that you can develop if you have the knack of working hard. It is something that has always stood out with him for some years — his attitude to go, get it, get better and chase his dreams,” Nayar stated.

Also Read: Kolkata Knight Riders’ Record and Stats at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Knight Riders are placed at No. 2 on the points table and a win against the defending champions on Monday will help them displace Rajasthan Royals and get to the top spot.