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Lalit Modi Urges KKR to Offer Gambhir Equity Deal for Long-Term Return

Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has publicly urged the Kolkata Knight Riders management to aggressively pursue the return of Gautam Gambhir to the franchise in a long-term capacity. He suggested offering Gambhir stock options or equity, similar to the deal late Australian legend Shane Warne had with Rajasthan Royals. Gambhir previously led KKR to two IPL titles as captain and later contributed as a mentor to their 2024 win. The call comes as KKR endures a difficult start to the current IPL season with just one point from their opening matches.

Key Points: Lalit Modi: KKR Must Do "Whatever It Takes" to Bring Back Gambhir

  • Lalit Modi advocates for Gambhir's KKR return
  • Suggests equity incentives like Shane Warne's deal
  • Gambhir led KKR to two IPL titles as captain
  • KKR struggling in current IPL season
2 min read

IPL 2026: Lalit Modi urges KKR to do "whatever it takes" to bring back Gautam Gambhir in setup

Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi urges KKR to lure Gautam Gambhir back with long-term incentives like stock options, citing Shane Warne's equity model.

"do WHATEVER, and I say it again WHATEVER IT TAKES To LURE him back - Lalit Modi"

New Delhi, April 10

Former Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi has voiced his support for the former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, suggesting that Kolkata Knight Riders should consider bringing him back in a long-term capacity.

Replying to a user on X who stated that KKR is nothing without Gambhir, Lalit Modi agreed with the sentiment and highlighted the former skipper's value to the franchise, while also proposing ways to secure his association.

"That I agree. That @GautamGambhir WITHOUT AN IOTA OF Doubt In my mind was the BEST PERSON for @KKRiders - the team management needs to do WHATEVER, and I say it again WHATEVER IT TAKES To LURE him back. Incentivise him. Like Shane Warne had equity options. Lock him in for a LONG LONG TERM- GIVE him STOCK OPTIONS - I hope they are smart to do that. He does not fall within Player Auction Purse - get him to be the face of the TEAM," Lalit Modi wrote on X.

He also pointed to the example of late Australian great Shane Warne, who had secured an equity stake in the Rajasthan Royals during his time with the franchise. Warne earned a 0.75 per cent ownership share for each season he played from 2008 to 2011, taking his total stake to 3 per cent.

With Rajasthan Royals valued at approximately Rs 15,301 crore in 2026, that stake is now estimated to be worth around Rs 460 crore for his family.

Gambhir enjoyed significant success with KKR, leading the team to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. He later returned as a mentor and was part of the setup when the franchise clinched its third title in 2024.

He subsequently took over as head coach of the Indian men's cricket team and has since guided them to victories in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

In the ongoing IPL season, KKR have had a challenging start, registering three losses in four matches, while one game against Punjab Kings ended without a result, leaving them with a solitary point so far.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
As a KKR fan from Kolkata, my heart agrees but my head says it's complicated. He's the Indian team coach now! Can he really split focus? But oh, how I miss the days of 2012 and 2014. The team lacks that fighter's spirit he embodied. 🏏
R
Rohit P
Respectfully, this feels like living in the past. Yes, Gambhir Sir is a legend. But KKR needs to build a new identity. Throwing money and equity at a former star isn't a strategy. The current management needs to step up, not just try to recreate magic from a decade ago.
S
Sarah B
The Shane Warne equity example is fascinating! Rs 460 crore for his family is incredible. If KKR can structure a similar deal, it would be a huge incentive. It shows players/coaches are true stakeholders, not just employees. Smart business move.
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Vikram M
First he wins us the T20 World Cup, now we want him back for KKR! 😅 The man is in demand. But honestly, let him focus on Team India. National duty comes first. KKR will find its way. Have some patience, dada!
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Karthik V
Lalit Modi suggesting this carries weight. He built the IPL. If he says Gambhir is worth an equity deal, the franchise should listen. It's not just about sentiment; it's a solid investment in a proven winner who understands the KKR culture inside out.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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