KKR is presently second in the standings thanks to Narine’s scorching innings, which included a century, two half-tons, and almost a dozen wickets.If Narine’s charismatic play holds true this season, the two-time winners have a good chance of ending their ten-year winning drought in the IPL.
“In our house, we call him Superman, the god particle. He’s a boss on the field, a player, a bowler, a batsman, a wicketkeeper, a fielder. He’s an ‘anything’ player,” Shah Rukh told Star Sports show ‘Knight Club presents – King Khan’s Rules’ about the 35-year-old stalwart, who played a pivotal role in KKR lifting the trophy in 2012 and 2014.
In the 2012 and 2014 seasons, Narine-the leading wicket-taker among overseas spinners in the IPL-took 21 and 24, respectively, setting the stage for the purple and gold jerseys to win their two IPL titles.
“He’s so spirited, so lovely. We’re very fortunate to have players, Indian or foreign, who have deep feelings for the team… Sunil, like I said, he’s an ‘anything’ player.”
The Bollywood actor continued by claiming that the club’s philosophy depended heavily on Narine and his countryman Andre Russell, and that any injury to one of them was like a body blow to the side.
“Imagine KKR without these guys. When they get injured, it feels awful to wonder how we’ll manage without them. It’s so crucial. They’ve been with us for so many years, and I think the way they have supported the team, they’re like part of the family,” said Shah Rukh.
Russell’s haircut sets him apart from the others, and Shah Rukh described the cricketer as a “fashionista”.
Even though it has been more than ten years since the West Indian made the stylish cut popular, the mohawk he popularized when he entered the IPL is still in style.
“Such a wonderful person to be around, and such a great cricketer. He reminds us of the first big man like Universe Boss, Mr. Gayle. He’s like that, and I love the fact that he’s very fashion-conscious. He likes to dress well, do his hair.
“Last night, I asked him, ‘Do you have some two-colour shoes?’ He said no, but he has designer spikes. So I said, ‘Are they Gucci designer spikes?’ Wow! Yes, well, I love the way he’s a fashionista.”
Russell and Rinku Singh have developed a close relationship, and Shah Rukh believes their friendship makes him think of Jai-Veeru from the classic film “Sholay.”
“Rinku and he have such a strong bond, like the Jai-Veeru friendship. They’re so different, yet they love each other and help each other as cricketers and as people. They’re so different, yet they love each other and help each other as cricketers and as people.”
KKR’s icon will always be team mentor Gautam Gambhir, who rejoined the squad this season after a stint with the Lucknow Super Giants. Gambhir led the franchise to two IPL victories and helped them make it to the playoffs five times.
“The great thing about Gautam Gambhir being back with us is that I never felt like he left us. Whether he’s in our team or mentoring someone else, there’s never any animosity or competition with him.”
Part 1 of Knight Club presents – King Khan’s Rules will air at 6.15 pm Friday evening.
(With PTI inputs)