The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) triumphed over the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 final at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, securing their third IPL title with a dominating performance. The standout player for KKR was Venkatesh Iyer, whose unbeaten 52 off 26 balls was instrumental in the team’s emphatic 8-wicket victory.
KKR’s Dominance in the Final
KKR’s bowlers set the tone early by bundling out SRH for a mere 113 runs. Venkatesh Iyer then led the chase with a strategic and aggressive half-century, ensuring KKR’s victory with 57 balls to spare. His performance drew high praise from cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar, who highlighted the marked improvement in Iyer’s game this season.
Gavaskar’s Praise for Iyer
Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar pointed out that Iyer’s refined approach and game sense could pave the way for his return to the Indian national team. “I feel his batting and thinking have changed a little this time and for the better. Due to that, I believe he can once again become an India prospect because he bowls as well. He is also a very good fielder. If you are a left-handed middle-order batter in T20 or 50-over cricket and can bowl a few overs as well, it is icing on the cake,” Gavaskar remarked.
In the previous season, Iyer showed signs of overconfidence, often getting out by going for big shots too early. Despite scoring a century against Mumbai, his inconsistency was a concern. However, this season, Iyer aggregated 370 runs in 13 innings at an impressive average of 46.25, reflecting his improved performance and strategic mindset.
A Strategic Approach
Gavaskar praised Iyer for his ability to assess and adapt to match situations. In the final, Iyer demonstrated his strategic acumen by first getting his eye in and then launching an attack on SRH’s key bowler, Bhuvneshwar Kumar. “Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the most dangerous bowler because the ball was swinging. So the way he went down the track and hit him for two sixes altered Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s line and length. When that happens, the batters dominate,” Gavaskar explained.
The Path to Victory
KKR’s journey to the IPL 2024 title was marked by consistent performances and strategic brilliance. In the final, their bowlers dismantled SRH’s batting lineup, setting a low target that their batsmen chased down with ease. Venkatesh Iyer’s aggressive half-century was the highlight of the chase, showcasing his growth as a player and his ability to perform under pressure.
Celebrations and Emotions
The victory was celebrated with much fanfare. Emotional scenes unfolded as KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan was seen embracing skipper Shreyas Iyer and coach Gautam Gambhir. Shah Rukh Khan also shared celebratory moments with the players and their families, highlighting the close-knit nature of the KKR team.
Looking Ahead
Gavaskar’s insights underscore Venkatesh Iyer’s transformation this season. With his refined batting and strategic mindset, Iyer has proven himself to be a strong candidate for a recall to the Indian national team. As KKR celebrates their third IPL title, the focus will also be on how players like Iyer continue to evolve and contribute to their teams in the future.
The IPL 2024 final will be remembered not just for KKR’s victory but also for Venkatesh Iyer’s standout performance, which could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his cricketing career.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram
