Venkatesh Iyer’s recent reflections on his time at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have shed light on the profound impact that Gautam Gambhir, the former captain and now India’s head coach, had on his development as a player. Iyer’s journey, marked by his historic achievement as KKR’s second IPL centurion, underscores the significance of mentorship in sports.
A Mentor’s Influence
Iyer, who plays for Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket, had the unique opportunity to learn from Gambhir during the IPL. Gambhir, a two-time World Cup winner and a pivotal figure at KKR, led the team to two IPL titles from 2011 to 2017. Upon his return ahead of IPL 2024, Gambhir’s leadership philosophy was instrumental in shaping Iyer’s career.
In an interview with RevSportz, Iyer recalled how Gambhir encouraged him to express his thoughts and take ownership on the field. “Gautam bhai always said to me that I should voice my opinion because it holds value. That empowerment made me feel like an integral part of the team,” Iyer stated. This kind of leadership fosters not only individual growth but also cultivates a collaborative team environment.
Stepping Up as Vice-Captain
The 2024 IPL season marked a turning point for Iyer when he was appointed vice-captain after Nitish Rana’s injury. This moment was significant for the young all-rounder, allowing him to apply Gambhir’s lessons in real-time. “I was always encouraged to take responsibility and make adjustments on the field,” Iyer said. Such encouragement has equipped him with the confidence to be a leader, regardless of whether he wears the captain’s armband.
Iyer’s empowerment on the field has laid a foundation for his leadership capabilities, making him a valuable asset to any team. He emphasized, “Wherever I go, I will carry that leadership quality with me. It’s about making sure my voice is heard, whether at KKR, Madhya Pradesh, or beyond.”
Emotional Farewell to KKR
Despite his remarkable contributions, Iyer was not retained by KKR ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Reflecting on this decision, he expressed his mixed emotions, noting, “KKR was not just a franchise; it felt like family.” The bonds he forged with teammates and the organization deeply affected him, making the retention news particularly poignant.
“I had fantastic moments with the team and cherished the opportunities provided to me. It was a little teary-eyed when I didn’t see my name on the retention list, but I respect the franchise’s decisions,” Iyer admitted. He hopes KKR will consider him in the upcoming auction, illustrating his desire to continue contributing to the franchise that played such a vital role in his career.
Conclusion
Venkatesh Iyer’s journey in the IPL, significantly shaped by Gautam Gambhir’s mentorship, serves as an inspiring narrative of growth, responsibility, and leadership. His achievements at KKR highlight the critical role that supportive leadership plays in sports. As Iyer moves forward in his career, he carries the invaluable lessons learned at KKR, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities on and off the field. Whether or not he remains with KKR, his legacy and the bonds formed will undoubtedly last a lifetime.
This story not only celebrates Iyer’s accomplishments but also emphasizes the importance of mentorship in sports, making it a valuable read for aspiring cricketers and fans alike.
