In a video that went viral on social media, the Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh was seen giving a warm hug to the former KKR mentor Gambhir at the ceremony.
The gesture showcased the camaraderie and respect between the two prominent figures, highlighting their shared history with the KKR franchise.
As a player, Gambhir led KKR to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. He then proved his coaching credentials as the mentor of the KKR team that won the IPL title in 2024.
But he stepped away from the franchise in pursuit of national objectives and replaced Rahul Dravid, whose tenure ended with India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup in Barbados last month, as India’s head coach.
Gambhir’s tenure will commence with the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to begin on July 27.
“It is an absolute honour to serve my tricolour, my people, my country,” Gambhir said after being appointed as the head coach.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his team of support staff for their exemplary run with the team. I am honoured and excited to take on the role of Head Coach for Team India.
“I have always taken pride while donning the Indian jersey during my playing days and it is going to be no different when I take up this new role.