Rajasthan Royals’ new recruit Robin Uthappa recalled his time at Kolkata Knight Riders under the captaincy of Gautam Gambhir. He spoke on the details that made Gautam Gambhir a successful captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Robin Uthappa has heaped praised Gautam Gambhir’s leadership style. Under the Indian opener’s leadership, Kolkata Knight Riders won two titles in 2012 and 2014. Uthappa shares how  Gambhir didn’t interfere in any players’ games and allowed complete freedom to his teammates.

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Star Sports ‘Cricket Connected’, Robin Uthappa said,  “What stood out for me was that he allowed people to express themselves. He didn’t interfere with anyone’s games. He made sure he built a sense of security within the group. I think it is integral in winning tournaments like the IPL and that’s what successful captains do.”

Uthappa reason’s Gambhir’s success and cites the security of players as a major factor. Uthappa, who has played for 4 different IPL franchise’s says Gambhir made his teammates feel secure which is something most successful captains do.

“In my experience of winning tournaments, what I’ve seen is that successful captains give people their space to express themselves and make sure that everyone within the group is feeling secure,” he said.

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Uthappa also adds how Gambhir used to spend a lot of time with the reserves players. He reveals that Gambhir ate his meals and trained with them so they felt included.

“Gambhir communicated to players even who are not playing. There’s a sense of communication that’s growing within the side. You need to bind with players especially in a tournament like the IPL. He made sure he spent a lot of time with the reserves, he trained with them, he had meals with them, so they never felt left out,” he said.