Shreyas Iyer on T20s: "I Rate Myself a 10/10"

PBKS skipper reflects on his journey, captaincy philosophy, and recent achievements ahead of IPL 2025 season.

Mumbai, January 13: Newly appointed Punjab Kings (PBKS) skipper Shreyas Iyer has expressed immense confidence in his T20 capabilities, stating that he considers himself a "10/10" player in the format. Speaking in an interview with ESPNCricinfo, the prolific batter emphasized his self-belief and unwavering mindset.

"I would always rate myself 10 because I do not like to doubt myself at all," said Iyer, who is set to lead PBKS in the IPL 2025 season.

A Proven Leader with a Stellar Track Record

Iyer’s leadership credentials are well-established, with milestones such as:

• Leading Delhi Capitals (DC) to the IPL finals in 2020.
• Securing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) their third IPL title in 2024.
• Captaining Mumbai to victories in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Ranji Trophy, and Irani Cup in 2024.

These achievements have earned Iyer a spot among the eight IPL captains to have clinched the coveted title.

"The journey has been a rollercoaster ride. I hate losing, and I think that mindset has elevated me to where I am as a captain," he said.

Philosophy as a Captain

Describing himself as a "liberating captain", Iyer said:
"I just let the players be. I don’t want them to behave in any particular way, but on the field, I expect everyone to share the same mindset: winning and contributing towards the team’s success."

He also stressed the importance of instinctive decision-making, citing his unorthodox calls in IPL 2024 final, which proved instrumental in KKR's victory.

"Sometimes, I take out-of-the-box calls that you wouldn’t imagine. It works for me," he added.

Exceptional 2024 Season

Iyer’s stellar form across formats in 2024 solidified his reputation as a world-class batter.

• Matches: 44
• Runs: 1,841
• Average: 43.83
• Centuries: 4
• Fifties: 7
• Highest score: 233

In December 2024, Iyer became the second-most expensive player in IPL history, signing with PBKS for ₹26.75 crores.

Looking Ahead with PBKS

Teaming up with head coach Ricky Ponting, Iyer is focused on delivering PBKS their maiden IPL title. Ponting praised Iyer's leadership, calling him a "great leader with a winning mentality."

With a balanced squad blending experience and young talent, PBKS is poised for a strong campaign under Iyer's dynamic leadership.

Punjab Kings Squad for IPL 2025 Highlights:

• Key Indian Players: Shreyas Iyer, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.
• Overseas Stars: Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen.
• Rising Domestic Talents: Suryansh Shedge, Harnoor Singh Pannu, Pyla Avinash.

With a winning mindset and an exceptional team, Iyer aims to steer Punjab Kings to IPL glory this season.