The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 concluded with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerging as the deserved champions. In the final clash on Sunday, the Knight Riders delivered a superb all-round performance to decisively defeat the Sunrisers Hyderabad, clinching the title and ending their decade-long wait since their last triumph in 2014 under Gautam Gambhir’s captaincy. Gambhir, returning to the franchise as a mentor, played a pivotal role in turning the team’s fortunes around.

Gambhir’s inspirational leadership: ‘Dare to Dream’

After the final, Gambhir shared a three-word post on social media that encapsulated his mindset and inspiration for the team: “Dare to Dream.” This simple yet powerful message highlighted the importance of belief and vision in achieving success as KKR celebrated their long-awaited IPL title.

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc spearheaded KKR’s bowling attack, delivering a sensational opening spell that dismantled the Sunrisers Hyderabad, who were bowled out for a meager 113 runs—the lowest total ever in an IPL final. Starc’s impressive figures of 2-14 set the tone for KKR’s dominance. Having joined the team for a record $2.98 million in the December auction, Starc proved his worth with match-winning performances, including a crucial 3-34 in the first play-off against the same opponents.

Starc and Iyer shine as KKR clinch title

KKR’s batsmen then made light work of the target. Despite the early dismissal of Sunil Narine, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Venkatesh Iyer forged a 91-run partnership. Gurbaz scored 39, while Iyer’s explosive 52 not out off 24 balls, including hitting the winning runs, ensured KKR’s victory with 9.3 overs to spare. Skipper Shreyas Iyer remained unbeaten on six as celebrations erupted at the stadium.

KKR’s triumphant campaign saw them finish at the top of the league phase with 20 points, underscoring their dominance throughout the season. The victory sparked jubilant scenes as players and fans celebrated the end of a long title drought.

See Also: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, warm-up wrap: Canada vs Nepal, Oman vs PNG, Namibia vs Uganda

As the IPL season wraps up, attention now turns to the upcoming T20 World Cup, starting June 1 in the West Indies and the United States.