Kolkata Knight Riders’ spinner Varun Chakravarthy has praised mentor Gautam Gambhir for transforming the team’s mindset, crediting him with bringing a “Spartan mentality” that emphasises resilience, focus, and self-belief. Speaking about Gambhir’s influence, Varun noted that the former India opener’s leadership style is built on intensity and clarity, with every player encouraged to embrace accountability and mental toughness. He explained that Gambhir’s approach has redefined the culture within the camp, shifting the focus from individual performance to collective purpose, where discipline and preparation are valued as much as raw talent. Under Gambhir’s mentorship, KKR have shown renewed intent and cohesion, reflecting his no-nonsense philosophy and deep understanding of pressure situations. Varun added that Gambhir’s presence has particularly helped younger players handle high-stakes moments with composure, as his guidance goes beyond tactics — instilling a warrior-like mindset that demands effort, pride, and professionalism. The “Spartan” attitude, as Varun described it, has become the defining tone of KKR’s resurgence, creating a culture that thrives on grit and determination, much like Gambhir himself did throughout his storied playing career.