In the lead-up to this year’s IPL final, Shreyas Iyer is keeping things relaxed with massages and a positive mindset. The Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain heads into the final with the chance to win consecutive titles, having led Kolkata Knight Riders to victory last season. Iyer’s standout performance helped secure PBKS’s spot in their first final since 2014, with an impressive unbeaten 87 off 41 balls in the Qualifier 2 match against Mumbai Indians (MI), marked by eight sixes, including a spectacular finish.
Discussing his calm demeanour at the crease, Iyer shared, “I love big occasions. I say to myself and my colleagues, the bigger the occasion, the calmer you are, and you’ll get the best results. Today I focused on my breathing rather than sweating it out.”
Following a loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Qualifier 1, Iyer urged the team to remain positive, dismissing the defeat as a minor setback. “One bad game wasn’t going to define our season,” he said, stressing the importance of intent and assertiveness from the start.
Iyer received praise for his leadership, particularly in nurturing a younger squad, including Nehal Wadhera, who contributed significantly with a 29-ball 48 alongside Iyer. “I just let them be, don’t ask too much of them,” Iyer remarked, valuing their fearless approach and ideas.
Speaking about his transition to PBKS during the auction, Iyer reflected on seeking a ‘good environment’. “I am very comfortable around the management and everyone around me and the environment is very positive,” he explained. Though celebrating the moment, he remains focused, stating, “the job is only half-done.”
Shreyas Iyer remains a pivotal figure as PBKS approach the final, combining experience with a fresh perspective to inspire his team.
