Kolkata, March 16 (NationPress) The Kolkata Knight Riders' victorious IPL 2024 Trophy Tour arrived at its final stop at South City Mall in the city, attracting a massive crowd of enthusiastic fans eager to see the coveted trophy up close.

The atmosphere was electrifying as KKR supporters gathered in large numbers to celebrate the team's third IPL championship. Just like during the rest of the tour, this last event allowed fans to create lasting memories with the prestigious trophy and participate in engaging activities organized for the occasion. The mall was filled with chants and cheers, contributing to a festive ambiance.

This concluding event rounded off a thrilling journey that took the IPL 2024 trophy to various iconic spots throughout Kolkata.

With the Trophy Tour now successfully concluded, the Kolkata Knight Riders are shifting their attention to the impending IPL 2025 season.

The team will commence their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 22 at the renowned Eden Gardens, aiming to defend their title and add another glorious chapter to their legacy.

The reigning champions have appointed veteran Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane as their new captain and all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer as vice-captain for the 2025 season.

Rahane, the senior-most Indian player in the KKR roster, is stepping into the role previously held by Shreyas Iyer, who led the franchise to victory in IPL 2024 in Chennai. Iyer, however, was not retained by the franchise and will now captain Punjab Kings in IPL 2025.

The defending champions commenced their pre-tournament preparations in Kolkata with a pooja ceremony on the Eden Gardens pitch on Wednesday. The coaching staff, led by head coach Chandrakant Pandit, along with the players, participated in the ceremony before starting cricketing activities at this historic venue.

Captain Rahane and Eden Gardens’ pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee performed the rituals as a tribute to cricket, seeking blessings for yet another successful IPL campaign.