Shreyas Iyer : In a dramatic and unprecedented announcement, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan revealed on Bigg Boss 18 that Shreyas Iyer will lead the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. This high profile revelation has set the cricketing world abuzz, marking a bold step by PBKS as they aim to secure their maiden IPL title.
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Shreyas Iyer : Salman Khan Confirms Shreyas Iyer as PBKS Captain for IPL 2025
PBKS’s Big Gamble: A ₹26.75 Crore Statement
Punjab Kings made headlines by signing Shreyas Iyer for a staggering ₹26.75 crore during the IPL 2025 auction, making him the second most expensive player in IPL history. Iyer’s leadership credentials were a significant factor in this decision. He recently led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title and boasts an impressive track record as a captain and player.
The 30 year old Mumbai batter, who has also excelled in domestic cricket, expressed his gratitude to PBKS management. “I am honored that the team has reposed its faith in me. With Coach Ricky Ponting and a strong squad, I look forward to delivering PBKS their maiden IPL trophy,” Iyer stated on the show.
Why Shreyas Iyer?
- Proven Leader:
Iyer captained KKR to IPL glory last season and has been a consistent performer. His ability to thrive under pressure makes him the perfect candidate to lead PBKS. - Ricky Ponting Connection:
PBKS’s new head coach, Ricky Ponting, has previously worked with Iyer during their time with the Delhi Capitals. Ponting’s confidence in Iyer’s leadership was evident. “Shreyas has a brilliant cricketing mind and proven captaincy skills. I’m excited to work with him again,” Ponting remarked. - Dynamic Middle Order Batsman:
With over 2,375 IPL runs at an average of 31.67, Iyer’s ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed adds immense value to PBKS.
Building a Star Studded Team
PBKS entered the IPL 2025 auction with the largest purse ₹110.50 crore and made aggressive moves to build a championship worthy squad. Alongside Iyer, the franchise splurged ₹18 crore each on Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh, creating a formidable bowling attack. Other notable additions include:
- Marcus Stoinis (₹11 crore): An all rounder with the ability to turn games with both bat and ball.
- Glenn Maxwell (₹4.2 crore): The “Big Show” returns to PBKS, adding explosive firepower to the middle order.
- Lockie Ferguson and Marco Jansen: Two world class pacers to bolster the pace attack.
The squad also retained key players like Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh, rounding out a team that blends youth, experience, and star power.
Shreyas Iyer’s IPL Journey
Iyer’s IPL career speaks volumes about his ability to adapt and perform on the big stage.
- Matches: 101
- Runs: 2,375
- Average: 31.67
- Strike Rate: 123.96
- Fifties: 16
His 2024 season with KKR was particularly notable, where he scored 351 runs at an average of 39.00 and a strike rate of 146.
PBKS’s Captaincy History: Can Iyer Break the Jinx?
Over the years, PBKS has struggled to find a stable captain. With a long list of leaders, the team has yet to win an IPL title.
| Captain | Span | Matches | Wins | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yuvraj Singh | 2008-2009 | 29 | 17 | 58.62% |
| Adam Gilchrist | 2011-2013 | 34 | 17 | 50.00% |
| KL Rahul | 2020-2021 | 27 | 11 | 40.74% |
| Shikhar Dhawan | 2022-2023 | 12 | 4 | 33.33% |
| Sam Curran | 2023 | 3 | 2 | 66.66% |
| Shreyas Iyer | 2025- | – | – | – |
With Iyer at the helm, PBKS is hoping for a turnaround in fortunes and a shot at their first-ever IPL title.
Bigg Boss Meets IPL: A Unique Marketing Move
PBKS’s decision to announce Iyer’s captaincy on Bigg Boss, one of India’s most-watched reality shows, was a masterstroke in marketing. The reveal not only engaged cricket fans but also reached a wider audience, showcasing how sports and entertainment can intersect seamlessly.
Iyer, alongside Yuzvendra Chahal and Shashank Singh, appeared on the show, sharing the stage with Salman Khan. The Bollywood icon lauded the team’s vision and wished Iyer luck for the season ahead.
With Iyer’s appointment as captain, PBKS has signaled its intent to go all out for the IPL 2025 trophy. Backed by a solid squad, experienced coaching staff, and the determination to end their title drought, the Kings are ready to roar.
Will Shreyas Iyer be the captain who finally brings glory to Punjab Kings? Fans can’t wait for the season to begin!
FAQs
Why was Shreyas Iyer chosen as PBKS captain?
Shreyas Iyer was selected for his proven leadership skills, including leading KKR to an IPL title and his consistent performance as a player
How much did PBKS pay for Shreyas Iyer in the IPL 2025 auction?
PBKS bought Shreyas Iyer for ₹26.75 crore, making him the second most expensive player in IPL history
