IPL 2025: Chahal Praises Shreyas Iyer's Open-Minded Leadership
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Synopsis
Yuzvendra Chahal lauds Shreyas Iyer's leadership, referring to him as an 'open-minded captain' who listens to team advice. Iyer's impressive stats and calm demeanor make him an approachable leader, enhancing Punjab Kings' chances for success in IPL 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Chahal praises Iyer's open-minded leadership.
- Iyer has scored 3,286 runs in 119 IPL innings.
- He led KKR to their third IPL title.
- Punjab Kings acquired Iyer for Rs 26.75 crore.
- Iyer's form includes an unbeaten 97 against Gujarat Titans.
New Delhi, April 6 (NationPress) Punjab Kings and India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has commended Shreyas Iyer as a captain who embodies an open-minded approach, emphasizing his willingness to consider input from all team members. The all-time leading wicket-taker in IPL history also noted that Iyer is an approachable captain, allowing any player to seek his guidance whenever necessary.
Iyer's IPL journey features stellar numbers, with a total of 3,286 runs across 119 innings. His most productive season occurred in 2020, where he amassed 519 runs. Beyond his personal achievements, he has matured from a talented young player into a successful captain.
He guided KKR to their third IPL championship, accumulating 351 runs at a strike rate of 146.86. During the 2025 mega auction, Punjab Kings acquired him for a record-breaking Rs 26.75 crore, assigning him the captaincy to lead their quest for the title.
'We share a strong camaraderie. We have played together on the India team, and off the field, he (Shreyas Iyer) is truly a good friend. I believe he is outstanding. As a bowler, you look to your skipper for everything you need. You can approach him at any time. He remains incredibly calm. Even when faced with pressure from the opposition, he does not panic. He stays composed,' Chahal shared with IANS during the JioHotstar Press Room with Punjab Kings.
'The best part is that he is receptive to everyone's suggestions. He actively seeks input from junior players, displaying his open-mindedness. We are thoroughly enjoying his leadership,' he added.
Iyer has been in phenomenal form this IPL season. He has carried his impressive performance from the Champions Trophy into the new season, as shown by his remarkable display against Gujarat Titans, scoring an unbeaten 97 with nine sixes and five boundaries at a stunning strike rate of 230.95.
He followed up with an unbeaten 52 against Lucknow Super Giants but was dismissed cheaply against Rajasthan Royals last Saturday. Currently, PBKS sits fourth in the rankings, having won two out of three matches, with two consecutive victories before facing their first defeat of the season—a 50-run loss to the Royals.
With PBKS aiming for their first IPL title, Iyer's explosive batting and leadership will be crucial in steering the franchise towards long-awaited IPL success.
PBKS is set to face Chennai Super Kings next on April 8 at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur in Chandigarh.
