Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as the new captain of Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The franchise secured Iyer’s services for a staggering INR 26.75 crore during the IPL 2025 auction, making him the second-most expensive player in league history. Iyer, who led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a title victory last season, opted for the auction and was pursued by multiple teams before PBKS outbid the competition with their substantial budget.
The announcement was made by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan during the reality show Bigg Boss. Iyer was joined by fellow cricketers Yuzvendra Chahal and Shashank Singh as guests on the show when the surprise reveal took place.
Iyer Excited to Lead Punjab Kings
Expressing gratitude towards the Punjab Kings management, Iyer shared his enthusiasm for the role. “I am deeply honoured by the trust the team has shown in me. I’m excited to reunite with Coach Ricky Ponting and lead a squad filled with potential and experience. My focus will be on repaying the faith shown by the management by delivering Punjab’s first-ever IPL title,” said Iyer.
The 30-year-old has had a stellar year, having led Mumbai to domestic success, including a Ranji Trophy victory, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and the Irani Cup. His impressive leadership also steered KKR to their third IPL title last season.
Ricky Ponting Praises Iyer’s Leadership
PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting expressed his confidence in Iyer’s abilities, highlighting their successful history together at Delhi Capitals. “Shreyas has a brilliant cricketing mind and exceptional leadership qualities. I’ve worked with him in the past, and I’m thrilled to collaborate again. With his experience and the talented players in the squad, I’m optimistic about the upcoming season,” Ponting said.
Shreyas Iyer’s IPL Record
Iyer has consistently been a reliable performer in the IPL. In his career, he has accumulated 2,375 runs at an average of 31.67 and a strike rate of 123.96, including 16 half-centuries. His highest score is 96. Last season, he was in fine form for KKR, scoring 351 runs in 15 matches at an impressive average of 39.00 and a strike rate exceeding 146, including two fifties.
Punjab Kings’ Revamped Squad
PBKS has made significant additions to their roster ahead of the 2025 season. Apart from Iyer, the franchise also secured Yuzvendra Chahal (INR 18 crore), Marcus Stoinis (INR 11 crore), and Glenn Maxwell (INR 4.2 crore). They also retained pacer Arshdeep Singh for INR 18 crore using the Right to Match (RTM) card.
With a new captain, an experienced head coach, and a strong squad, Punjab Kings are gearing up for a promising campaign as they chase their elusive maiden IPL title.
