The experienced Indian batter Manish Pandey has made a return to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad for the upcoming IPL season. He has been acquired by the 2-time IPL champions for a rather underwhelming price of 50 Lakhs. The Karnataka lad is not currently experiencing the best phase of his career, and his recent performances in domestic cricket are not particularly encouraging. However, there must be some reasons behind KKR’s bid for Manish Pandey, and in this article, we will highlight those three reasons.
A homecoming
Manish Pandey has played for KKR in the past, and he is arguably the most prominent reason behind the Knight Riders’ glorious campaign in 2014 when they won the IPL title for the second time. Pandey has been a part of multiple franchises since then, but the Indian batter has not been able to replicate the success he achieved in the Kolkata jersey anywhere else. This comeback might help him regain his mojo in the IPL, and he could emerge as a solid option for KKR in the middle order.
An Indian option in the middle order
It is crucial for any franchise to have a solid Indian core in the IPL if it aims to mount a title challenge. Overseas players are important, but not as critical as their Indian counterparts, given that the majority of the team is comprised of Indian players. Manish Pandey serves as a valuable Indian option in the middle order who can contribute with his experience. Kolkata struggled in the last season due to injuries to some of their key batters, making Manish Pandey’s inclusion a vital move.
Reunion with Gautam Gambhir
A very significant change in the Kolkata Knight Riders’ camp this season is the arrival of Gautam Gambhir to the city of joy. The two-time IPL-winning captain is back with KKR, but this time in a mentor’s capacity. His role might be a decisive factor in bringing out the best in Manish Pandey, which was not possible in the previous few seasons. Manish Pandey was one of the most important assets for KKR when Gautam was at the helm, and the fans would expect the same to happen this time as well.