On Thursday, Kolkata Knight Riders CEO Venky Mysore confirmed that Shreyas Iyer would resume his role as captain for KKR in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, with Nitish Rana appointed as his deputy.

Iyer had missed the IPL 2023 due to injury, leading Nitish Rana to captain the team, resulting in an eighth-place finish. However, Iyer made a successful comeback during the 2023 Asia Cup in September-October and contributed to India’s journey to the 2023 World Cup final last month.

Expressing his excitement, Venky stated, “It was unfortunate that Shreyas missed IPL 2023 due to injury. We are delighted to have him back as Captain. His recovery and remarkable form showcase his character.”

The announcement also confirmed the return of Gautam Gambhir as a mentor to the franchise. Gambhir, who led KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, rejoined as a mentor last month. Having served as a mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants in 2022 and 2023 after his retirement, Gambhir brings valuable experience to the team.

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Venky expressed gratitude to Nitish Rana for his leadership in Iyer’s absence in the previous season, stating, “We are grateful that Nitish agreed to step into Shreyas’s shoes last season and did a great job. Nitish, as Vice Captain, will undoubtedly support Shreyas for the benefit of #TeamKKR.”

Shreyas Iyer commended Rana for his leadership during the challenges of the last season and expressed his delight at Rana being named Vice Captain for the upcoming edition. “Nitish did a great job not only filling in for me but also with his commendable leadership. I am delighted that KKR has named him Vice Captain. No doubt it will strengthen the leadership group,” Iyer remarked.