The new captain of the Punjab Kings, Shreyas Iyer, has stated that he plans to bat at number three in the 2025 Indian Premier League. Iyer, who captained the Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL 2024 championship, had mostly batted at No. 4, but he recently proven to be India's difference at No. 4 during their undefeated march to the Champions Trophy triumph in Dubai. In order to accommodate KKR's demands last season, he had also occasionally dropped to No. 5 or No. 6.
The IPL is a crucial component of Indian cricket, as we already know. At a press conference, Iyer stated, "If I were to mark myself at any position in T20, it would be No. 3." And I'm concentrating on it. We aren't planning or considering the number I'll be batting, I wouldn't disclose.
I'm really clear about that stance this time. And that figure will be my main focus. As long as I get the coach's blessing.
After some success with the Delhi Capitals, where they made the playoffs from 2019 to 2021, including the 2020 final, Iyer will be reunited with coach Ponting. Iyer was purchased by PBKS for INR 26.75 crore (about USD 3.18 million), making him the second most expensive player at an IPL auction.
"I think it was pretty obvious to everyone who I wanted as my captain if you look back at the auction," Ponting remarked. "And we achieved our goals. I was itching to collaborate with Shreyas once more. For a long time, we enjoyed a fantastic working relationship in Delhi. Among the best players I've ever worked with is him. He is a wonderful person. He is a captain who has won the IPL. Not much more could be asked for.
"I think it was pretty obvious to everyone who I wanted as my captain if you look back at the auction," Ponting remarked. And we achieved our goal. I was itching to collaborate with Shreyas once more. For a long time, we enjoyed a fantastic working relationship in Delhi. Among the best players I've ever worked with is him. He is a wonderful person. He is a captain who has won the IPL. Not much more could be asked for.
We have the most exceptional leader we could ask for. And together, we've experienced many successes and wonderful moments. I believe we have a great understanding of one another. Any team's captain-coach relationship is crucial, as you are aware.
PBKS finished second from bottom in the 2024 Indian Premier League after winning just one of their seven home games at Mullanpur and Dharamsala. Ponting wants to change that and figure out how to win at home this year.
According to Ponting, "I understand that if you are not winning at home, you are not winning the IPL." It's a major factor in why I'm sitting here right now. I was looking for a challenging coaching situation. And we possess that. However, we are not under any pressure. What do we stand to lose?
We're going to go play an extremely exciting and fun style of cricket. And I'm confident that our players are capable of doing that.