The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) electrified the cricketing world with their Knight’s Unplugged event in Calcutta at the Knights’ favourite hotel, ITC Sonar, marking the commencement of the season in style. The unveiling of their vibrant new jersey, adorned in regal purple and gold, symbolised the team’s renewed vigour and commitment to excellence. Led by the team’s CEO, Venky Mysore, and Vikrant Mudaliar of Dream11, the event showcased KKR’s alliance with Dream11, igniting anticipation for a stellar T20 season.
The launch of the Knight Plus app, along with an exclusive performance by the legendary Usha Uthup demonstrated KKR’s innovative approach to fan engagement. With energetic performances by Bomb Fire Crew and the beloved mascot Kay the Knight, the event exuded an atmosphere of celebration and unity and proved that Calcutta bleeds purple. The event gave a glimpse of KKR’s journey this year which promises to be fuelled by passion and the unwavering support of the Calcuttan fans. Snapshots from the event.
“This event marks the beginning of an exciting journey for KKR. The overwhelming enthusiasm from our fans and partners has set the stage for a memorable season ahead. We are grateful for their unwavering support and look forward to making our fans proud”, said Venky Mysore, CEO of Knight Riders Group
The event was incomplete without its star-studded moment when Gautam Gambhir returned to team KKR after seven years, 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. “I did not make Kolkata Knight Riders successful, it was KKR that made me a successful leader. 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,” said team mentor Gautam Gambhir.
Nitish Rana and Mitchell Starc from the purple squad enjoyed the performances from the first row
It was a dazzling sight as the whole venue was bleeding purple with KKR fans from all over the city waving the team flag in the air and shouting “Korbo, Lorbo, Jeetbo Re!”