IPL 2024: As Sunil Narine scores big, KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan reacts.© Twitter
The Eden Gardens witnessed something special on Tuesday. Sunil Narine, after 15 years since his first-class debut, scored the first century of his career at the age of 35 years and 326 days. The century came in 49 balls for Kolkata Knight Riders against Rajasthan Royals. The West Indies all-rounder, who has been promoted higher up, hit 13 fours and six sixes on his way to a 56-ball 109. The century was received with joyful response from Shah Rukh Khan, team owner of Kolkata Knight Riders.
#ShahRukhKhan is happiest when he sees Sunil Narine reach his first century #KKRvRR pic.twitter.com/crddezLJWU
— Shah Rukh Khan Warriors FAN Club (@TeamSRKWarriors) April 16, 2024
Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir has had a major influence on Narine's rise. During his stint as IPL captain, Gambhir had used Narine as a pinch-hitter at the top of the order. Former India and CSk star wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel praised Gambhir for giving Narine a new role.
“When Gautam Gambhir was captain of KKR, he was completely convinced that Sunil Narine is the kind of player who could win matches if he opened the batting. He came back to KKR and did just that. Many things make a difference If you know you have someone backing you, you can hit with confidence. Without a doubt, his stroke is exciting. When you score 85 from 39 balls and it feels like any other ball could go for a four or a six,” said Parthiv Patel as quoted by Jio Cinema.
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