Shreyas Iyer Named Punjab Kings Captain for IPL 2025
In a major development ahead of IPL 2025, Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as the captain of Punjab Kings. The dynamic batsman will lead PBKS in the upcoming season, aiming to turn their fortunes around in the highly competitive league.
Shreyas Iyer’s Journey: From Setbacks to Redemption
Shreyas Iyer’s cricketing career has seen its fair share of highs and lows. After being excluded from BCCI’s central contracts list in 2024 due to his absence in Ranji Trophy matches, Iyer made an impressive comeback in ODIs. However, his return to Test cricket remains uncertain, sparking debates among cricket experts and former players.
R Ashwin’s Take on IPL’s Role in Test Selections
Former India spinner R Ashwin has weighed in on the ongoing discussion regarding Iyer’s potential Test comeback. During a discussion on his YouTube channel about Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, Ashwin dismissed the idea that IPL performances should influence Test team selections.
“Tell me one thing: how can a good IPL lead to a Test call-up? How can you improve your Test credentials if you have a good IPL? If you do well in ODIs, someone writes an article about having that player in Tests,” Ashwin remarked on his show, Ash Ki Baat.
The veteran spinner further emphasized that different formats require different skill sets.
“If someone does well in Tests, people start talking about a T20I comeback. Isn’t all this wrong? If you perform well in the IPL, it should only impact your T20I selection,” he added.
Recognition for Iyer’s Leadership at KKR
Ashwin also acknowledged Iyer’s crucial role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ title-winning campaign. Despite leading KKR to their third championship, Iyer had previously expressed that he did not receive enough credit for his leadership. However, India captain Rohit Sharma recently hailed Iyer as the “silent hero” of the Champions Trophy, further validating his impact.
“Shreyas Iyer has done really well. The form he showed in the Champions Trophy, I won’t be surprised if he carries that into the IPL. He is a fabulous player. He played a key role in helping KKR lift the title last season,” said Ashwin.
Punjab Kings Kick Off IPL 2025 Against Gujarat Titans
With Iyer at the helm, Punjab Kings will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, March 25. Fans are eager to see how the newly appointed skipper steers PBKS in the new season.