Veteran Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara is reportedly in discussions with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to take over as the team’s mentor ahead of IPL 2025. The franchise, which won its third IPL title in the 2024 season, is looking to bring in Sangakkara after the departure of Gautam Gambhir, who played a pivotal role in KKR’s success as their mentor last season.
Gambhir, who led KKR to two IPL titles as captain in 2012 and 2014, returned as the team’s mentor for IPL 2024. Under his guidance, KKR broke their decade-long title drought by winning their third IPL trophy. However, Gambhir has since moved on from his role at KKR to take up the position of head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, leaving the mentor position vacant.
Sangakkara To Replace Gambhir in KKR As Mentor
Reports suggest that Sangakkara, who has been the director of cricket for Rajasthan Royals since 2021, is set to replace Gambhir. His extensive experience in the IPL and his cricketing knowledge make him a valuable asset to KKR’s management team. Though Sangakkara is expected to step down from his Rajasthan Royals role, he will continue working with their sister teams in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and SA20.
Kolkata Knight Riders are also looking to refresh their coaching setup, as long-serving coach Abhishek Nayar has joined the Indian national team setup alongside Gambhir. This has led KKR to search for additional new staff members ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Sangakkara’s deep understanding of Indian cricket and his experience in the IPL are expected to be crucial in shaping KKR’s strategy for the upcoming season. With a major auction on the horizon, his appointment could play a key role in building a strong squad for IPL 2025.
