IPL 2025: Kuldeep Sen Commends Shreyas Iyer’s Leadership Skills

New Delhi, March 29 (NationPress) Kuldeep Sen, a pace bowler for Punjab Kings (PBKS), asserts that the calm demeanor of skipper Shreyas Iyer positions him as a formidable candidate for future Indian team leadership. He commended Iyer's ability to maintain composure during tense moments and grant his bowlers strategic freedom, traits that significantly contributed to KKR's championship win the previous season and are now evident in his leadership at PBKS.

As the IPL progresses, discussions surrounding potential leadership for Indian cricket are rampant. Sen shared his insights, particularly regarding Iyer. “Shreyas has been pivotal in stabilizing the innings from the middle order. Batting during that phase is challenging, yet he consistently made vital contributions. His knack for both anchoring and accelerating is a substantial asset for the team.”

“Iyer's strength as a captain lies in his ability to remain calm on the field. I noticed that even when he played against us, he offered complete freedom to his bowlers, enabling them to determine their execution strategies. This is an admirable quality in a leader. India has numerous leadership options, and when you consider Shreyas, his captaincy attributes are exceptionally strong. He is composed, calm, and possesses excellent decision-making abilities. His performance speaks volumes, and as a captain, he remains cool and is genuinely a great person. That is paramount,” Sen conveyed to IANS.

Two years ago, the right-arm pacer emerged as a fast-bowling sensation. Recording speeds above 140 kmph and defending 14 runs against Marcus Stoinis during his IPL debut, he was heralded as one of India’s forthcoming pace stars. However, injuries swiftly sidelined him. A back issue during his inaugural ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2022, followed by a knee injury in 2024, led to missed critical domestic and IPL chances.

Now, having successfully returned to fitness, the 28-year-old is embarking on a new chapter. Sen, who originates from the modest town of Rewa in Madhya Pradesh, is not fixating on lost opportunities. He is concentrating on future prospects - whether in the IPL with Punjab Kings or in red-ball cricket, his aspirations remain robust.

The pacer spoke about his comeback, training under Ricky Ponting, the repercussions of injuries on his career, and his desire to represent India again.

“I am feeling good now. I maintain a straightforward mindset - I do not overthink playing for India. I trust my process. If my process is effective, my results will follow. I’m committed to following this process. Whenever I get an opportunity, I will give my utmost,” he stated.

This conviction has been his compass since reentering first-class cricket in January 2024. He had to wait until Madhya Pradesh’s Ranji Trophy match against Kerala in February to participate in his first competitive encounter of the season. Now, as the IPL unfolds, he has another chance to display his skills - this time with Punjab Kings, the team that first assessed him before his acquisition by Rajasthan Royals in 2022.

Having trained alongside some of cricket’s most renowned figures, Sen is now refining his skills under the legendary Ponting at Punjab Kings. Reflecting on his experiences with Rahul Dravid and the Australian icon, Sen remarked, “It has been an enriching experience. Ricky Ponting is incredibly calm and supportive, both on and off the field. He understands how to manage players effectively - knowing when to challenge them and when to allow them to rest. I am acquiring a lot from him.”

Bowling at high velocities remains his forte, but Sen acknowledges that T20 cricket demands execution under duress. “During practice sessions, our coaches assign us specific objectives. We focus on various types of yorkers - stump yorkers, wide yorkers - and apply them in match-like scenarios. The more you practice under pressure, the better your execution in live matches,” he elaborated.

Despite his capacity to bowl swiftly, Sen has faced challenges in securing a consistent spot in IPL lineups. He opines that the Impact Player rule has further complicated matters for bowlers like him. “It’s challenging because teams now have additional options. However, I am not preoccupied with that. My responsibility is to be prepared whenever I am presented with a chance.”

With 14 wickets in 12 IPL matches to date, he has begun to unveil his potential. Now, with Punjab Kings, he aspires for a breakout season. “The team exerted considerable effort in our opening match. Our batsmen performed admirably, and we initiated strongly with the ball. The equilibrium of our squad is commendable, featuring robust options in both batting and bowling,” he expressed.

Unlike many fast bowlers who specialize in a single format, Sen is open to all three. “I haven’t committed to a specific format. I enjoy T20, appreciate One-Day cricket, and have also played in Ranji matches. As a player, one must be prepared for any format, and I am ready for that,” he asserted.

He takes pride in India’s fast-bowling prowess and dreams of being part of the elite pace attack. “India is no longer a spin-dominated team. If you observe Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami - they are world-class bowlers. From pace to swing, we possess all attributes. It’s encouraging that Indian fast bowlers are excelling.”

When asked if he would prioritize Test cricket if given a choice, Sen replied, “I have transitioned from red-ball cricket to white-ball cricket. Whenever I am afforded the opportunity to play in the Test team, I will give my best. I am always prepared for the red-ball format.”

After enduring years of injuries, recovery, and comebacks, Sen’s perspective on his career is refreshingly straightforward - control what he can and allow the rest to unfold. “I do not overthink selection. I trust my process. If my process is sound, results will follow. My focus is on performing my best whenever I receive an opportunity.”