The new captain of the Punjab Kings, Shreyas Iyer, has said that he plans to bat at number three in the 2025 Indian Premier League. Iyer, who led 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.
“We already know that Indian cricket depends heavily on the IPL. 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 OK.”
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.
“If you look back at the auction, I think it was pretty clear to everyone who I wanted as my captain,” Ponting stated. “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 greatest 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 had many successes and wonderful moments. I believe we have a great understanding of one another. Any team’s captain-coach connection 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.
“What I understand is that if you are not winning at home, you are not winning the IPL,” Ponting stated. 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 out and play cricket in a way that is incredibly exciting and fun. And I’m certain that our players are capable of doing it.”
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