IPL 2025: RP Singh Calls Iyer's Transition to PBKS a Pivotal Moment

New Delhi, April 25 (NationPress) This Saturday, Shreyas Iyer will step onto the turf of Eden Gardens as the captain of Punjab Kings, seeking to secure two vital points against a struggling Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the team he previously led to the IPL 2024 title.

While many were taken aback by Iyer's decision not to be retained by KKR, the right-handed batsman has taken charge as the PBKS captain with his characteristic intelligence and composure, leading the team to five victories out of eight matches in IPL 2025 so far.

Iyer’s performance as the number three batsman has been impressive, accumulating 238 runs in four away matches this season, boasting a remarkable strike rate of 201.69.

Former Indian left-arm fast bowler RP Singh believes that Iyer's transition from leading KKR to facing them as the captain of PBKS is significant for the upcoming match at Eden Gardens.

“The clash between Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders is crucial in this week’s schedule, especially since Punjab managed to defend a modest total in their previous encounter through exceptional bowling (in New Chandigarh). KKR's recent form has not been impressive,” Singh remarked during a virtual interaction with IANS on Friday, amidst the 'Revenge Week'.

In PBKS’ impressive defense of a low score of 111, which is the lowest ever defended in IPL history, it was Iyer's tactical captaincy, precise field placements, and strategic bowler rotations that were key to outsmarting KKR at their home ground, the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium.

Under Iyer’s guidance, senior leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal regained his form, taking an eye-catching four wickets to restrict KKR to just 95. The match also highlighted the stellar performance of left-arm pacer Marco Jansen with figures of 3-17, while Arshdeep Singh, the leading wicket-taker for PBKS, maintained tight bowling with 1-11 in his three overs.

The anticipated KKR-PBKS showdown will occur on the pitch where Gujarat Titans scored 193 and triumphed over the defending champions by 39 runs. Iyer and his ace bowlers, including Jansen’s intimidating bounce, Arshdeep’s sharp swing, and Chahal’s crafty variations, are keen to make a powerful statement against the Ajinkya Rahane-led side at Eden Gardens.

“The behavior of the pitch is crucial, as even within the same ground, wickets can act differently, and the dew factor plays a significant role. Marco Jansen and Arshdeep Singh are pivotal due to their recent performances,” Singh added.

“If they can take wickets with the new ball, it will create pressure on the opposition. Chahal is also expected to deliver another match-winning performance, but the contribution of medium pacers is vital since they operate during the power play. The team that excels in the power play for both batting and bowling will hold the advantage,” Singh concluded.

Don’t miss the electrifying encounter between Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 Revenge Week clash at 7:30 PM on Saturday, streaming live and exclusively on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network.