KKR's Legacy of Care: The Pujara Story
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have firmly established themselves as one of the Indian Premier League's most admired franchises, celebrated not just for their on-field successes but for their profound commitment to player welfare. This philosophy of genuine care, which has fostered immense loyalty from stars like Rinku Singh, was put to the ultimate test in 2009 with a young and promising Cheteshwar Pujara.
A Promising Career Halted by Devastating Injury
In 2009, a 21-year-old Cheteshwar Pujara, fresh from a stellar domestic season, joined the KKR squad, full of hope for his IPL debut. However, destiny had a cruel twist in store. During a routine practice match, Pujara suffered a severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his knee. This type of injury is notorious in sports, often requiring up to a year of recovery and has prematurely ended the careers of many athletes.
As recounted by his wife, Puja Pujara, in her book The Diary of a Cricketer's Wife, the incident was a heartbreaking turn of events. Pujara ruptured his ACL while chasing a catch that was ultimately never within his reach. The result was a temporarily halted cricketing journey, all without him having played a single official game for the franchise that had invested in him.
Franchise Goes Above and Beyond: Surgery in South Africa
Where many organizations might have faltered, KKR's management sprang into immediate and decisive action. Recognizing the gravity of the injury, the franchise made the critical decision to arrange for Pujara's surgery in Cape Town, South Africa, a global hub for specialized sports injury treatment.
This plan, however, faced an initial hurdle. Pujara's father, Arvind, was apprehensive and preferred the surgery to be conducted in their hometown of Rajkot. It was at this juncture that co-owner Shah Rukh Khan personally intervened. The Bollywood megastar spoke directly with Pujara's father, convincing him of the superior medical expertise available in South Africa and assuring him of the franchise's full support.
KKR's commitment was absolute. They managed the entire logistical nightmare, handling passports, visas, and complex travel arrangements. Understanding the family's anxiety about being in a foreign country without a support system, the franchise made an extraordinary offer.
They arranged for Pujara's father and their family doctor from Rajkot, Dr. Shah, to accompany him to Cape Town at the franchise's expense. A KKR representative assured the family, "We'll also fly down anyone you want for the surgery. We'll pay them here so that you have your own people around you."
The Successful Recovery and a Fulfilled Destiny
The surgery in Cape Town was a resounding success, setting Pujara on a path to a complete and robust recovery. This unwavering institutional and personal support during his most vulnerable period was not forgotten. Freed from the financial and logistical burdens, Pujara could focus entirely on his rehabilitation.
He returned to the game stronger, eventually carving out a legendary career as one of India's most dependable Test batsmen before his recent retirement. The story of KKR's handling of the Pujara injury is more than just an anecdote; it is a testament to the culture of the franchise, explaining why it remains a preferred destination for players who value security and respect as much as sporting glory.
