Last season, Shreyas Iyer led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their IPL 2024 title triumph. Despite this success, KKR did not retain him, paving the way for Punjab Kings (PBKS) to secure his services during the IPL 2025 mega auction for an astounding ₹26.75 crore. This amount made Iyer the second-most expensive player in IPL history, following Rishabh Pant.
As one of the most sought-after players in IPL history, Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy record speaks for itself. Punjab Kings roped him in to lead the squad, with the announcement made on Sunday. The upcoming IPL 2025 season, scheduled to begin in March, marks a new chapter for Iyer, as he takes charge of PBKS.
At Punjab Kings, Iyer will reunite with head coach Ricky Ponting. The duo previously shared a successful stint at Delhi Capitals (DC), where they reached the IPL 2020 final. Ponting expressed confidence in Iyer’s leadership, highlighting the synergy they share as a promising factor for PBKS.
“I am honoured that the team has reposed its faith in me. I am looking forward to working again with coach Ponting. The team looks strong, with a great mix of potential and proven performers. I hope to repay the faith shown by the management to deliver our maiden title.”
The previous year was a memorable one for Shreyas Iyer. Apart from winning the IPL title with KKR, he led Mumbai to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His achievements extended further, as he played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s success in the Ranji Trophy and Irani Trophy, solidifying his reputation as a match-winner.
Punjab Kings will be Shreyas Iyer’s third IPL franchise. He began his IPL journey with Delhi Capitals in 2015, where he was appointed captain midway through the 2018 season. Following his tenure at DC, he moved to KKR, where his leadership led the team to their second IPL title in 2024.
Ricky Ponting, PBKS’ head coach, shared his enthusiasm for working with Iyer once again.
“Shreyas has a great mind for the game. His proven capabilities as captain will enable the team to deliver. I have enjoyed my time with Iyer in the past in IPL, and I look forward to working with him again. With his leadership and the talent in the squad, I am excited about the seasons ahead.”
PBKS CEO Satish Menon expressed his excitement about the partnership between Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting.
“We had identified Shreyas as our captain and were delighted with the auction result. He has already proven himself to master the format, and his vision for the team aligns perfectly with our goals. With him and Ponting joining hands again, we are confident our team has a solid leadership group to guide us to our first title.”
PBKS, formerly Kings XI Punjab, has yet to win an IPL title since the league’s inception in 2008. With Shreyas Iyer at the helm and Ricky Ponting’s strategic guidance, the franchise is aiming to break the title drought in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
Shreyas Iyer's appointment as the captain of Punjab Kings for IPL 2025 marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the franchise. With his proven leadership skills, a stellar track record, and the guidance of head coach Ricky Ponting, PBKS is poised to aim for their maiden IPL title. The team's decision to invest heavily in Iyer reflects their confidence in his ability to bring out the best in the squad and guide them to success.
As Iyer takes on this new challenge, PBKS fans and management alike are hopeful that his vision and experience will lead the team to glory in the upcoming season. With a talented roster, strong leadership, and a renewed focus, Punjab Kings look ready to make a lasting impact on IPL 2025.