The Recap Of IPL 2024
Captains of all 10 teams pose with the IPL 2024 trophy
Source: Khel Now
The 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season marked a historic moment for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as they clinched their third IPL title, joining the elite club of teams with more than two championships, alongside Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). This season, which spanned from March 22 to May 26, saw ten teams compete across 74 matches held in 13 cities across India.
KKR’s victory was notable not just for the win itself but for the manner in which it was achieved. In the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), KKR’s bowlers delivered a stellar performance, restricting SRH to a meager 113 runs. This collective bowling effort set the stage for a swift chase, with KKR reaching the target in just 10.3 overs. Venkatesh Iyer’s explosive 52* off 26 balls was a highlight, showcasing KKR’s batting prowess and ensuring a comfortable win by eight wickets.
The significance of this title for KKR is deeply intertwined with Gautam Gambhir’s legacy. Gambhir, who had previously led KKR to their first two titles as captain, played a pivotal role this season as the team’s coach. His strategic acumen and leadership were instrumental in guiding the team to victory, demonstrating his enduring impact on the franchise.
Shreyas Iyer and Gautam Gambhir
Source: Times of India
The 2024 season also saw several key developments and rule changes. For the first time, bowlers were allowed to bowl two bouncers per over, a rule trialed in the domestic Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Additionally, the player auction, held in Dubai, saw some record-breaking buys, including Mitchell Starc, who became the most expensive player in IPL history when KKR acquired him for ₹24.75 crore (approximately $3.1 million).
The tournament began with a grand opening match at Chennai’s M.A. Chidambaram Stadium between the defending champions, CSK, and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The league stage featured fierce competition, culminating in a series of playoff matches held at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium and Chennai’s iconic venue for the final stages.
KKR’s journey through the season was marked by consistent performances and strategic brilliance. Despite starting the season with some mixed results, they managed to peak at the right time. Key players like Shreyas Iyer, who captained the team, and the newly recruited Mitchell Starc, played crucial roles in the team’s success. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents created a balanced squad capable of handling high-pressure situations.
In summary, the 2024 IPL season was a testament to KKR’s resilience and strategic prowess, with Gautam Gambhir’s transition from a championship-winning captain to a triumphant coach being a central narrative. Their dominant performance in the final against SRH underscored their status as one of the premier franchises in IPL history, further solidifying the league’s reputation for producing thrilling and competitive cricket.
