Credits: IPL/X
West Indies’ legendary all-rounder Dwayne Bravo joined Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders as their mentor hours after his retirement from cricket. The cricketer called it quits after his farewell Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season was cut short due to an injury. Fondly called DJ Bravo, the 40-year-old is the highest wicket-taker in T20 history. Bravo, who batted at number 11 for the Trinbago Knight Riders in the match against the Saint Lucia Kings, sustained an injury while fielding.
It signalled the end of his CPL campaign, and ultimately his playing career. The cricketer then took to Instagram to share an emotional post announcing his retirement. However, on the morning of September 27, the reigning champions in the IPL, KKR, announced him as the mentor of the franchise.
KKR announce Dwayne Bravo as their new mentor
The IPL 2024 champions Kolkata Knight Riders announced Bravo as their new mentor. The former cricketer will replace former mentor and current head coach of the Indian cricket team, Gautam Gambhir at the helm of KKR. The franchise took to X to make the announcement and shared, “Say hello to our new Mentor, DJ 'sir champion' Bravo! Welcome to the City of Champions!”
With his new stint, Bravo has put an end to his long and celebrated association with five-time IPL winners Chennai Super Kings. The former cricketer won four IPL titles with the Chennai-based franchise in different roles. As per reports by ESPNcricinfo, Bravo met with KKR CEO Venky Mysore during the CPL before agreeing to the contract. Apart from KKR, he will also be in charge of all franchises under KKR including Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC) and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20).
Today is the day I say goodbye: Dwayne Bravo retires from all forms of cricket
On September 26, Bravo announced his retirement from all forms of cricket and revealed the decision via an emotional post on Instagram. On Instagram, he wrote, “Dear Cricket, Today is the day I say goodbye to the game that has given me everything. From the age of five, I knew this was what I wanted to do—this was the sport I was destined to play. I had no interest in anything else, and I dedicated my entire life to you. In return, you gave me the life I dreamed of for myself and my family. For that, I can’t thank you enough.”
He added, “Twenty-one years as a professional cricketer - it’s been an incredible journey, filled with many highs and a few lows. Most importantly, I was able to live my dream because I gave you at every step. As much as I’d love to continue this relationship, it’s time to face reality. My mind wants to keep going, but my body can no longer endure the pain, the breakdowns, and the strain. I can’t put myself in a position where I might let down my teammates, my fans, or the teams I represent.”
