Synopsis
On April 16, 2025, in New Delhi, former India cricketer Rayudu applauded PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer for his leadership skills following a historic low score defense against KKR. Rayudu emphasized Iyer's calm demeanor as pivotal for the team's success and noted his ability to inspire and enhance team performance.Key Takeaways
- Shreyas Iyer's leadership was crucial for PBKS.
- Rayudu praised Iyer's composure during matches.
- Strategic decisions can turn the game around.
- Consistency in player selection is key for success.
- Iyer has a history of improving team performance.
New Delhi, April 16 (NationPress) Following the remarkable achievement by Punjab Kings (PBKS) in successfully defending a modest 111 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Mullanpur, marking the lowest successful defense in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, former Indian cricketer Rayudu commended Iyer for his poise and leadership, asserting he was the key to transforming a fragile position into a triumphant win.
"I have witnessed many great captains who might not regard such a low score seriously. Believe me, but this individual did. Ponting understands this. He never gives up, which forms a fantastic partnership they have. However, continuity in player selection is essential for sustained success," Rayudu noted.
"Shreyas embodies composure both as an individual and as a captain. Thus, I concur with Bishop here that he is indeed a commendable captain, primarily due to this calm demeanor," Rayudu remarked on ESPNcricinfo's Time Out show.
The pivotal moment of the match was in the eighth over. With KKR at 62 for 2 in pursuit of 112, Iyer strategically positioned fielders close to the bat, empowering Chahal to launch an aggressive attack. The seasoned leg-spinner delivered a match-altering performance with 4 wickets for 28 runs, reinvigorating PBKS's chances.
Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop also emphasized Iyer’s positive influence on every team he has captained. "Wherever Shreyas has gone, he’s enhanced team performance. I’ve seen captains adopt a passive approach, but he took decisive action. PBKS was duly rewarded with an unexpected win," Bishop stated.
Bishop reminisced about how Iyer had previously revitalized the Delhi Capitals in 2018 and led them to the finals in 2020. His leadership with KKR culminated in a championship in 2024. Now, at PBKS, he has propelled them to the top four with four victories out of six matches and currently leads their run charts.
"They exhibit greater eagerness and hunger. They are on the right track," Rayudu commented, while Bishop pointed out that, compared to certain teams, PBKS had only played their sixth match on Tuesday. He noted that, "if they had lost this match, it wouldn’t have been catastrophic, but instead, they’ve granted themselves a valuable bonus."
