The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set the stage ablaze as they kicked off the cricketing season with the Knight's Unplugged event today in Kolkata. The event highlighted the many achievements and initiatives that promise to define KKR's journey in the upcoming season.
The evening unfolded with a bang as KKR unveiled their brand-new jersey in a dazzling showcase. The resplendent purple and gold hues of the jersey were revealed to the world by Mr Venky Mysore, CEO of Knight Riders Group, and Mr Vikrant Mudaliar, Chief Marketing Officer of Dream11, the Principal Sponsor of KKR for T20. The entire KKR squad took the stage, sporting the sleek and stylish design, embodying the spirit of KKR with pride.
The event was not without its star-studded moments, such as Gautam Gambhir's return to team KKR, which sent waves of excitement through the crowd. An engaging chat between first-time captain Shreyas Iyer, KKR team coach Chandrakant Pandit and KKR mentor, Gautam Gambhir provided insights into the team's strategy and aspirations for the season ahead.
KKR’s massive fandom was represented by KKR’s renowned Super Fan, Ashok Chakraborty. He was felicitated by none other than KKR Captain, Shreyas Iyer, who presented Ashok with the 'Golden Ticket', which gives him a free pass to all KKR matches this season!
Adding to the excitement was the launch of KKR’s Knight Club Plus app, a one-stop shop that promises to be the ultimate destination for KKR fans. The iconic Usha Uthup, who features in the app's quirky campaign, designed an exclusive track for the app and also went on to perform some of her classics at the event, enthralling the crowds.
Energetic performances by the dance troupe Bomb Fire to the KKR anthem and a spirited opening act by the KKR mascot Kay added to the festive atmosphere, setting the stage for an evening filled with entertainment and camaraderie.
"This event marks the beginning of an exciting journey for KKR," said Venky Mysore, CEO of Knight Riders Group. "The overwhelming enthusiasm from our fans and partners have set the stage for a memorable season ahead. We are grateful for their unwavering support and look forward to making our fans proud."
“I did not make Kolkata Knight Riders successful, it was KKR that made me a successful leader,” said team mentor Gautam Gambhir. “KKR meant passion, honesty, sacrifice, and selflessness. I have to thank Shah Rukh Khan and Venky Mysore. SRK taught me honesty, dignity, and being fair to everyone. Every player says this about their own franchise’s supporters but I mean it – it’s the most passionate and the most loyal fan base. I can assure you of one thing – we’ll fight for our pride, we’ll fight for your pride, for your joy, and to bring smiles to your faces.”
“I was very proud of the way the team played last season,” commented head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Chandrakant Pandit. “Every individual, young and experienced, and even support staff, had contributed. Players at this level know their own responsibilities and one must give them the freedom to play at the best of their ability. When they go out, they have always shown that aggression, that fire in the belly, and we have always seen that spirit in the dressing room. There was also some great motivation behind it – Kolkata’s people loved them so much and they didn’t want to disappoint them.”
“I feel that all the players in the squad all match winners in their own way and they have proved it in the past as well,” said new team captain Shreyas Iyer. “I’m looking forward to having some great memories this season and fingers crossed, lift the trophy as well. Great moments are born with great opportunities and captaining this squad in front of 60,000 fans in the stadium when the atmosphere will be electrifying and crowd will be bustling – I can’t wait for it.”
The event was attended by KKR management, dignitaries, partners, sponsors, fans, and media, underscoring the immense support and enthusiasm for the team. As the evening drew close, lucky fans were treated to a special surprise. A lucky draw via raffle awarded three lucky attendees special gifts, ensuring that memories of this extraordinary evening would be cherished for years to come.
As KKR gears up to dominate the T20 arena, the Knight's Unplugged event served as a fitting prelude to what promises to be a thrilling cricket season.
