Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have already initiated preparations for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 as they look for a replacement for Gautam Gambhir, who left his role as KKR’s mentor to become the head coach of the Indian national team. Gambhir, who joined KKR before IPL 2024, had a significant impact on the franchise, guiding them to their third IPL title and ending a 10-year trophy drought. His excellent auction strategy and match awareness were key factors in KKR’s success. Gambhir’s association with KKR includes two IPL titles as a captain and one as a mentor.

Gautam Gambhir’s new role and KKR’s search for a successor

Following this successful stint, Gambhir was appointed as the head coach of the Indian cricket team after Rahul Dravid‘s tenure ended with the T20 World Cup 2024. Due to a conflict of interest, Gambhir will have to leave his position at KKR from IPL 2025. Several reports indicated that KKR are looking to revamp their coaching staff for the 2025 season, with Dravid initially rumored as a potential mentor. However, a new candidate has emerged for the role.

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Potential mentor for the IPL 2025

Now, according to a report by the Telegraph, KKR are considering legendary South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis for the mentor role vacated by Gambhir. Kallis had a rich history with KKR, having previously served as the franchise’s head coach from IPL 2016 to 2019 and as a player from 2011 to 2014. During his playing career with KKR, Kallis won two IPL titles. As a coach, he led the team to three consecutive playoffs from 2016 to 2018 before resigning after KKR failed to make the playoffs in IPL 2019.

“The franchise is also on the lookout for a replacement for Gambhir, who was key to its third IPL crown this year. The name of legendary South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis, who had coached KKR in 2019, is also doing the rounds,” the report stated.

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