![[WATCH] IPL 2026: Sourav Ganguly was seen giving batting tips late night to Connor Esterhuizen at Eden Gardens](https://sportsupdates.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/1779113773050_saurav-gangulyu-and-connor-esterhuizen-860x538.jpeg)
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has always remained an inspiration for young cricketers across the globe. His contribution to Indian cricket, both as a player and administrator, continues to influence the next generation. Ganguly, who is currently serving as the president of the Bengal Cricket Association, once again showcased his passion for nurturing young talent after the recent Indian Premier League clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens.
After the match concluded around midnight, with the pitch already covered, Ganguly was spotted spending time with young Gujarat Titans batter Connor Esterhuizen, who had come in as a replacement for Tom Banton. Despite the late hour, the former India skipper patiently guided the South African youngster and shared valuable batting insights. Ganguly explained the importance of footwork, proper bat grip, body balance, and hip movement while playing different shots.
At 12 AM, when the lights of Eden Gardens had almost gone quiet after an intense IPL night, one man was still thinking about cricket.
Not for cameras.
Not for headlines.
But for the love of the game. ❤️
Sourav Ganguly standing beside young Connor Esterhuizen, sharing batting tips… pic.twitter.com/YqZo3j4CXz— Emon Mukherjee (@EmonMukherjee21) May 17, 2026
Chawla lauds Sunil Narine’s frugal spell for win against GT
Speaking about the match, Kolkata Knight Riders kept their IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive with a brilliant 29-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Match 60 on Saturday, May 16. The win has significantly boosted KKR’s chances of finishing in the top four, while Gujarat Titans will now aim to secure victories in their remaining league-stage fixtures to ensure a top-two finish.
Batting first, KKR produced a batting masterclass. Finn Allen played a sensational knock of 93 runs off just 35 deliveries and gave the hosts a flying start. Angkrish Raghuvanshi then continued the assault with a magnificent 82 off 44 balls. Cameron Green also contributed with a quickfire 52 from 28 deliveries as Kolkata posted a mammoth total of 247/2 in 20 overs.
In reply, Gujarat Titans began positively, with captain Shubman Gill scoring a classy 85 off 49 balls. Jos Buttler added 57, but the required run rate kept climbing. Veteran spinner Sunil Narine delivered a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Gill in the 17th over, effectively ending Gujarat’s hopes. Eventually, KKR sealed a vital 29-run win and earned two crucial points in the race for the IPL 2026 playoffs.
