Iyer reunites with coach Ricky Ponting, aims to lead Punjab Kings to their maiden IPL title.
New Delhi, January 12: The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab Kings has named Shreyas Iyer as their captain for the upcoming IPL 2025 season, set to begin in March. The announcement was confirmed by the franchise on Sunday.
Iyer, a dynamic right-handed batter, was acquired by Punjab Kings during the December 2024 auctions. His appointment reunites him with head coach Ricky Ponting, under whose mentorship Iyer has flourished in past IPL campaigns.
Expressing his gratitude, the 30-year-old said he was honored by the trust shown in him and is eager to bring the team its first IPL title. "I am honoured that the team has reposed its faith in me. I am looking forward to working again with Coach Ponting. The team looks strong, with a great mix of potential and proven performers. I hope to repay the faith shown by the management to deliver our maiden title," Iyer said in a statement.
Head coach Ricky Ponting praised Iyer’s leadership abilities, highlighting his strategic understanding of the game. "Shreyas has a great mind for the game. His proven capabilities as captain will enable the team to deliver. I have enjoyed my time with Iyer in the past in IPL, and I look forward to working with him again. With his leadership and the talent in the squad, I am excited about the seasons ahead," Ponting stated.
Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon also lauded Iyer’s vision, emphasizing its alignment with the franchise’s goals. "We had identified Shreyas as our captain and were delighted with the auction result. He has already proven himself to master the format, and his vision for the team aligns perfectly with our goals. With him and Ponting joining hands again, we are confident our team has a solid leadership group to guide us to our first title."
Iyer’s Stellar 2024 Performance
Shreyas Iyer had a standout year in 2024, leading Mumbai to Ranji and Irani Trophy victories and captaining Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL title. Under his guidance, Mumbai also secured their second Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Punjab Kings Squad for IPL 2025
Batters: Shreyas Iyer, Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Harnoor Singh Pannu, Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash.
Wicketkeepers: Josh Inglis, Vishnu Vinod, Prabhsimran Singh.
All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Azmatullah Omarzai, Aaron Hardie, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge.
Spinners: Yuzvendra Chahal, Pravin Dubey.
Fast Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, Yash Thakur, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Kuldeep Sen, Xavier Bartlett.
