The new franchise of the Indian Premier League — Lucknow, has roped in former Indian cricketer and World Cup legend Gautam Gambhir in its support staff. The two-time IPL winning captain will join the Lucknow-based franchise as a mentor. The news was confirmed by the franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka on Saturday.
“Yes, we have taken him,” Goenka confirmed to Cricbuzz. Along with Gautam Gambhir, is one-time Delhi and Knight Riders teammate Vijay Dahiya has also been roped in by the franchise. He is expected to join as the assistant coach. He is currently the head coach of the Uttar Pradesh state team.
If reports are to be believed then Gambhir has been part of the preparation for the Lucknow team for quite some time. “Once the team was bought by Mr. Goenka, the relationship became formal and professional,” a source revealed.
Welcoming Gautam Gambhir in the franchise, Goenka appreciated the ‘impeccable career record’ of the legendary Indian opener and said:
“Gautam has an impeccable career record. I respect his cricketing mind and look forward to working with him,”
Gautam Gambhir also took to Twitter and thanked Goenka for presenting him with this opportunity. He wrote:
“It’s a privilege to be in the contest again. Thanks Dr.Goenka for incl me in #LucknowIPLTeam as its mentor.The fire to win still burns bright inside me, the desire to leave a winner’s legacy still kicks me. I won’t be contesting for a dressing room but for the spirit & soul of UP”
Here, check out the Tweet:
It’s a privilege to be in the contest again. Thanks Dr.Goenka for incl me in #LucknowIPLTeam as its mentor.The fire to win still burns bright inside me, the desire to leave a winner’s legacy still kicks me. I won’t be contesting for a dressing room but for the spirit & soul of UP
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 18, 2021
Gautam Gambhir, who is an MP of the ruling BJP, has played 58 Tests, 147 ODIs, and 37 T20Is in an impressive international career of nine years. He has led Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL title twice.
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