Punjab Kings (PBKS) have made a resounding statement ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season by announcing Shreyas Iyer as their new captain. In a bold move during the mega auction, PBKS splurged a jaw-dropping Rs. 26.75 crore to secure the services of the 30-year-old batting maestro. This makes Iyer the second-most expensive player in IPL history, just behind Rishabh Pant, who was picked by Lucknow Super Giants for a record-breaking Rs. 27 crore in the same auction. Together, the two Indian stars have rewritten history, surpassing the previous record held by Australian pacer Mitchell Starc.
Shreyas Iyer’s Record-Breaking Journey
When Shreyas Iyer takes the field as PBKS captain in the opening match of IPL 2025, he will etch his name in the record books as the first Indian cricketer to captain three different IPL franchises. Previously, Iyer led Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), showcasing his leadership prowess and tactical acumen. Notably, he guided KKR to their second IPL title in 2024, capping off a stellar season with a dominant victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final.
Iyer’s achievement is monumental in IPL history, placing him among an elite group of players who have captained three teams. This exclusive club includes legendary figures like Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, and Steve Smith. Among these, Iyer and Sangakkara are the only two to have been named full-time captains for three franchises.
Shreyas’s Unique Leadership Record
One of the most remarkable aspects of Iyer’s career is his ability to inspire teams to reach the IPL final. He remains the only captain to have led two different teams to the tournament’s ultimate stage. In 2020, he took Delhi Capitals to their maiden final, only to lose to a dominant Mumbai Indians side. Four years later, he orchestrated KKR’s dream run, culminating in their title-winning triumph. Now, with PBKS, Iyer has the opportunity to create history by becoming the first captain to win IPL titles with two different franchises.
PBKS fans are brimming with hope, as the team aims to end a 17-year title drought. Despite their consistent performances over the years, including a runner-up finish in 2014, the coveted trophy has eluded the Punjab-based franchise. With Shreyas at the helm, PBKS hopes to turn their fortunes around and finally claim their maiden IPL title.
The Captaincy Shuffle at PBKS
Shreyas Iyer’s appointment marks a significant shift in PBKS’s leadership strategy. He will be the franchise’s 17th captain and the 12th full-time skipper, following in the footsteps of stalwarts like Yuvraj Singh, Adam Gilchrist, KL Rahul, and Shikhar Dhawan. This constant reshuffling of captains has been a defining feature of PBKS’s history, with the team often struggling to find long-term leadership stability. However, Iyer’s proven track record as a leader and batsman brings a new sense of optimism to the franchise.
IPL’s Mega Auction: A Game-Changer
The 2025 IPL mega auction was a spectacle of big-money deals, with teams sparing no expense to secure marquee players. Shreyas Iyer’s Rs. 26.75 crore deal underscored his value as one of the premier Indian talents in modern cricket. His consistent performances across formats, combined with his leadership credentials, made him the most sought-after player in the auction.
The auction also saw Rishabh Pant’s historic Rs. 27 crore move to Lucknow Super Giants, further emphasizing the importance of Indian players in the league. Together, Pant and Iyer have set a new benchmark for player valuations, reflecting the growing competitiveness and financial muscle of the IPL.
Expert Opinions on Iyer’s Appointment
Former cricketers and analysts have lauded PBKS’s decision to invest in Shreyas Iyer as their captain. Speaking about the move, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir remarked, “Shreyas is a proven leader who knows how to handle pressure and get the best out of his team. His appointment as PBKS captain is a masterstroke.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Sunil Gavaskar added, “Iyer’s tactical nous and calm demeanour make him the perfect choice to lead PBKS. With his experience and ability to perform under pressure, he can be the catalyst for Punjab’s success.”
Challenges Ahead for Shreyas Iyer
While Shreyas Iyer’s appointment has generated significant excitement, the road ahead will be far from easy. PBKS has often struggled with consistency, both in their performances and team composition. As captain, Iyer will face the dual challenge of delivering results on the field while fostering a cohesive team environment off it.
Moreover, the pressure of leading a franchise that has never won the IPL title will add to the burden of expectations. However, Iyer’s previous stints as captain suggest that he thrives under pressure. His calm yet assertive leadership style could prove instrumental in turning PBKS’s fortunes around.
A Look at PBKS’s Prospects for IPL 2025
With Shreyas Iyer at the helm, PBKS will enter the 2025 IPL season with renewed vigour and purpose. The team management has also made several strategic acquisitions in the auction to bolster their squad. Key additions include seasoned all-rounders and young domestic talents, creating a balanced mix of experience and youth.
PBKS’s core batting line-up, featuring Iyer, Liam Livingstone, and Shikhar Dhawan, looks formidable on paper. The bowling department, led by Kagiso Rabada and Arshdeep Singh, adds further firepower to the team. If the players can gel together and execute their roles effectively, PBKS could emerge as serious title contenders this season.
Conclusion
Shreyas Iyer’s appointment as PBKS captain has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the team’s prospects for IPL 2025. His leadership skills, combined with his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, make him a valuable asset for the franchise. As the first Indian player to lead three different IPL teams, Iyer has already cemented his place in the league’s history. Now, he has the chance to achieve even greater glory by guiding PBKS to their first-ever IPL title.
With the season just around the corner, all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer and Punjab Kings as they embark on this exciting new chapter. Can Iyer replicate his success with KKR and deliver a historic title for PBKS? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the 2025 IPL season promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
With inputs from agencies
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