'Iyer has been there with the players' - Mohammad Kaif acknowledges Shreyas Iyer as driving force behind KKR's remarkable IPL 2024 campaign

The Indian Premier League witnessed the Kolkata Knight Riders' finest season yet as they topped the points table with nine wins in fourteen games, losing just three matches. Unfortunately, their last two encounters were abandoned without any play due to inclement weather. Interestingly, even during their title-winning seasons in 2012 and 2014, KKR didn't achieve a higher win percentage or secure the top position on the points table; instead, they finished second on both occasions.

Notably, the resurgence of KKR's brilliant performances this season has largely been attributed to the return of their two-time IPL-winning captain, Gautam Gambhir, in a mentoring role. His comeback facilitated the reintroduction of Sunil Narine as the opener, a strategic move that yielded substantial rewards for KKR. Narine's explosive displays throughout the season have elevated him to the position of the team's leading run-scorer, amassing an impressive 482 runs in 14 matches. 

Also Read: 'On 26th May, we should be there, giving everything possible' - Gautam Gambhir in his motivational speech ahead of IPL 2024 

In a veiled yet powerful retort to those excessively hyping Gambhir's return to KKR, former Indian cricketer, Mohammed Kaif, as reported by the Hindustan Times, subtly redirected attention to Iyer's leadership skills. Kaif emphasized that while Gambhir's presence was noted, it was the on-field captain who truly shaped the team's destiny, fostering both personal and professional growth for himself.

“We always talk about (Gautam) Gambhir, but he can't enter the field - in the rope with the players. Iyer has been there with the players, and it will help him grow as a person and player,” as reported by the Hindustan Times.

KKR have got all bases covered in terms of batting and bowling: Kaif

Commenting on KKR's comprehensive performance in IPL 2024, Kaif highlighted their well-rounded squad, noting their ability to cover all aspects of the game effectively. He emphasized the importance of having strong bowlers for championship-winning teams, subtly pointing to the contributions of Varun Chakravarthy, Harshit Rana, and Andre Russell making strides in the wickets column. Kaif asserted that KKR emerged as the team to beat in the finals, boasting a balanced equilibrium that sets them apart from their competitors. 

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"I think KKR are a very well-balanced side. Tournament-winning team has to have good bowlers, KKR have got the bowlers. You saw how (Mitchell) Starc bowled against (SRH in Qualifier 1), it's a balanced side. KKR have got all bases covered in terms of batting and bowling. They are the team to beat in the IPL, they are way ahead," added Kaif.