In 2024 Kolkata Knight Riders bagged their third Indian Premier League title. They are the second most successful side in the history of the tournament after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians who have won five trophies each. One common thing among players from these franchises is that they would come and give credit to the role of owners alongside the captain and coaching staff.
“The way he talks to everyone, he is very down to earth and loves everyone in the team. I think he is one of the best owners you could ask for. He just gives you all the freedom to play cricket. Whether you win, lose, or draw, it is the same Shah Rukh Khan,” Narine said during a pre-season press conference. It is not the first time a KKR player praised Shah Rukh Khan on how he deals with KKR players and staff.
Repaying loyality
Narine since making his debut for KKR in 2012 has been retained in every single auction. The off-spinner did repay the faith with performances with the ball. In 177 matches in the league, Narine has picked up 180 wickets at a miserly economy of 6.73. Narine has been part of all the titles KKR has won and has played a pivotal part in the seasons.
However, the tricker part has been his batting. While the experiment to make him open at the top of the order is not KKR’s original idea however, it did bore them fruits at times, and at times it has backfired miserably. Last season has been one of those years where Narine along with Salt would demolish the oppositions with the starts they gave.
“Cricket has evolved so much, so you have to try to evolve your game as well. There are times where I have to contribute with bat and the ball, but I think it is about general confidence and being able to emulate and utilize whatever I can do on the field,” Narine said of opening the batting.