NEW DELHI: On a humid night with clouds hovering over Chepauk, Kolkata Knight Riders celebrated their third IPL title, securing an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final. Under the astute leadership of Shreyas Iyer, KKR delivered a commanding performance that culminated in lifting the coveted trophy.
In his post-match remarks, Iyer gave a special mention to the "heartbeat" of the team, co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, whose unwavering support has been a cornerstone of the franchise's spirit.
The Bollywood icon has been a constant presence at KKR matches, traveling across the nation to cheer for his team. SRK's encouragement was particularly vital, as he even visited the dressing room to uplift the team after their setbacks during the group stages.
After the win, Iyer expressed his gratitude on the X, acknowledging SRK's inspirational influence. "Special mention to the heartbeat of this team @iamsrk! Thank you for all your words of inspiration and encouragement," Iyer wrote.
The victory ignited jubilant celebrations in the KKR camp, contrasting sharply with the dismay in the SRH camp. Despite the defeat, KKR extended a heartfelt message of respect and admiration to their opponents.
"Respect for @SunRisers. One bad game doesn't define the exceptional season you've had in any way. Some unforgettable performances, and a top #TATAIPL2024 season for the men in orange," KKR shared on X.
KKR's journey to the title was marked by a stellar all-round performance in the final at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The team’s bowlers delivered a stunning display, restricting SRH's free-scoring batting lineup to a mere 113 runs. In response, KKR chased down the target in just 10.3 overs, losing only two wickets.
The triumph was particularly sweet for KKR, as they echoed their maiden title win at the same venue in 2012 under Gautam Gambhir's leadership. This victory not only highlighted the team's consistency and dominance throughout the season but also reaffirmed their place among the IPL's elite.
1/10:Emotions galore as KKR family celebrates IPL 2024 triumph
IANS
2/10:Gambhir with his family
<p>Gautam Gambhir with his wife and daughters after Kolkata Knight Riders won their third Indian Premier League title with an eight-wicket thrashing of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Sunday.<br /></p>
3/10:SRK celebrates with Shreyas Iyer's mother
<p>Shah Rukh Khan with Shreyas Iyer's mother after Kolkata Knight Riders won their third Indian Premier League title with an eight-wicket thrashing of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Sunday.<br /></p>
4/10:Jay Shah poses with Gambhir
<p>BCCI secretary Jay Shah poses with Gautam Gambhir after Kolkata Knight Riders won their third Indian Premier League title with an eight-wicket thrashing of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Sunday.<br /></p>AP
5/10:SRK with 'Hero' of the final Starc
<p>Shah Rukh Khan with Mitchell Starc after Kolkata Knight Riders won their third Indian Premier League title with an eight-wicket thrashing of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Sunday.<br /></p>
6/10:Touching moment!
<p>Shah Rukh Khan kissed Gautam Gambhir's forehead after Kolkata Knight Riders won their third Indian Premier League title with an eight-wicket thrashing of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Sunday. <br /></p>AP
7/10:A king-size hug for skipper Iyer
<p>Shah Rukh Khan hugs skipper Shreyas Iyer after Kolkata Knight Riders won their third Indian Premier League title with an eight-wicket thrashing of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Sunday.<br /></p>
8/10:The winning hug!
<p>Shah Rukh Khan hugs wife Gauri soon after Kolkata Knight Riders clinched their third Indian Premier League title with an eight-wicket thrashing of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Sunday.<br /></p>
9/10:SRK does his signature pose for fans
<p>Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Shah Rukh Khan celebrates after his team defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League final match in Chennai on Sunday.</p>AP
10/10:Shah Rukh Khan acknowledges the crowd after victory
<p>Shah Rukh Khan acknowledges the crowd after Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League final match in Chennai on Sunday. <br /></p>PTI(With inputs from ANI)
