Kolkata Knight Riders' million dollar man, Gautam Gambhir feels snubbed Sourav Ganguly must be part of star-studded Indian Premier League franchise's dressing room

India's star batsman Gautam Gambhir, who was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders for $2.4 million at the Indian Premier League player auction on Saturday, has welcomed owner Shah Rukh Khan's thoughts about roping in Sourav Ganguly in a non-player capacity.

Ganguly wasn't picked up by any of the 10 teams at the auction held over the weekend. His non-selection has led to a furore in his hometown Kolkata and throughout India.

"It is great news," Gambhir told MiD DAY when informed about Shah Rukh's statement given here during India's Twenty20 international against South Africa. "I would welcome Dada in any capacity. He should be attached to our dressing room. He's such a big player, plus there is the Kolkata angle to consider," the opener added.

Shah Rukh said on Sunday that he would call Ganguly on his return to India to speak to him about coming on board, but the former India captain is not accepting any calls. It is learnt that he is gutted over the IPL snub.

On Saturday, when this correspondent asked him whether it was wise of him to raise his base price from $200,000 to $400,000 which may have been the reason why there were no bidders for him, Ganguly shot back: "This is a small amount for a rich franchise owner."

Gambhir was delighted he was bought for a record sum, but was quick to put things in perspective. "The point is that I will have to perform. We have a good side with Jacques Kallis and Yusuf Pathan among others, but I'm particularly happy to see (Bangladesh batsman) Shakib Al Hasan. He's a very good catch," he said.

Gambhir was asleep in his hotel room in Durban when news of his record purchase filtered through to South Africa. His phone was on silent mode while his close mates from India tried to reach him. He will be KKR's third captain after Ganguly and Brendon McCullum. "Shah Rukh spoke to me before the auction to inform me that I would be captain if KKR manage to get me," he said.

Asked if he would miss playing for Delhi Daredevils, Gambhir did not show his emotional side. "No, I won't miss Delhi Daredevils because I am now with Kolkata Knight Riders. For me it will be KKR and only KKR. I have to focus all my energies on their welfare."

For now though, his thoughts are on the 50-over, five-match one-day series against South Africa that kicks off here tomorrow. Over to Kingsmead!