Phil Salt hails KKR's Chandrakant Pandit as a 'great man'
What's the story
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have seen a significant rise in their performance over the past two seasons, under the guidance of coach Chandrakant Pandit.
Despite facing challenges in Indian Premier League 2023 due to the absence of several key players, KKR managed to clinch their third IPL title in 2024 by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad.
This victory has been largely attributed to Chandrakant Pandit's coaching strategies and leadership.
Criticism
Former KKR player Wiese had criticized Pandit's coaching style
Former KKR all-rounder David Wiese criticized Pandit's coaching style in a podcast titled 'Hitman for Hire: A Year in the Life of a Franchise Cricketer,' hosted by Sam Keir.
Wiese revealed that there were internal issues within the team and many players were unhappy with Pandit's approach.
He described Pandit as a "militant type of coach" and a strict disciplinarian, which did not sit well with some overseas players.
Praise
Salt praises Pandit's coaching skills and relationship
In contrast to Wiese's criticism, England cricket team opener Philip Salt praised Pandit for his exceptional coaching skills during the IPL 2024.
He stated that he shares a "great relationship" with the KKR coach.
"He's a man that reads a room very well. He knows when to have an arm around you, knows when to pull your tail a bit," stated Salt, during the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards.
Performance
Salt's performance and early departure from IPL 2024
Salt, known for his aggressive batting style, scored 435 runs in just 12 matches during the IPL 2024.
He maintained an impressive average of 39.55 with a strike rate of 182.01.
However, he had to leave KKR mid-season to fulfill his national duties for England's series against Pakistan before the ICC T20 World Cup.
"I was disappointed to come so far and leave India feeling like I still had a job to do," Salt expressed.
Gambhir
Loved working for 'competitor' Gautam Gambhir, says Phil Salt
Salt also publicly expressed his admiration for Gautam Gambhir, the incumbent Indian cricket team head coach.
He credited Gambhir's guidance for his successful performance in the 2024 IPL edition. Gambhir served as KKR's mentor.
"What a competitor. I could really relate to him from that point of view," Salt said about Gambhir.
He also revealed the most impactful advice he received from Gambhir was to "take the game deep, especially here in India."