Gautam Gambhir in talks about TNPL mentor post

In the recently concluded Indian Premier League, the former Indian opener scored 498 runs for Kolkata Knight Riders at an average of 41.50 in just 16 matches. Even though he performed brilliantly in the 2017 IPL, Gambhir wasn't able to book a place in the Indian squad for the Champions Trophy. The 35-year-old will now take place in the second edition of the TNPL. However, Gambhir is more interested in taking up the role of mentor rather than a player.

“Yes, I am in talks with a few franchises for a mentoring role,” Gambhir told TOI. "This tournament is for up and coming Indian youngsters. It is a platform for the local talent. I don't want to block a young talent by playing in TNPL."

The opening season of TNPL was a tremendous success with the players like T Natrajan making headlines and ended up in the IPL a few months later. Even former international players such as Lance Klusener, Robin Singh, Brett Lee and Michael Bevan, ave joined the league as mentors. 

Even though nothing has been confirmed yet, it appears Gambhir has given multiple franchises presentations ahead of the tournament because he wants the role of a mentor to make a difference. 

"Mentoring in TNPL doesn't mean that he is compromising on his playing career. But it will be a new experience for Gambhir and he is taking it as there are hardly any cricket engagements for him around that time. He will continue to play domestic cricket for Delhi, IPL and hopefully make a comeback into the Indian team," TOI reported a source saying.