The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a spectacle that transcends cricket. It’s a festival of color, drama, and high-octane action, where every season brings new heroes and unforgettable moments. Yet, every so often, a story emerges that stands out even in this glittering landscape—a story of grit, vision, and leadership.
In 2025, that story belongs to Shreyas Iyer, who has just etched his name in IPL history by becoming the first captain ever to lead three different franchises into the playoffs. This is not just a record; it’s a testament to the power of belief and the art of leadership.
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The Night History Was Made
On a balmy Sunday evening in Jaipur, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pulled off a thrilling 10-run victory over the Rajasthan Royals. The win was significant for many reasons, but none more so than what it meant for their captain, Shreyas Iyer.
With this result, PBKS secured a playoff berth for the first time since 2014, ending an agonizing 11-year wait for their fans. But the real headline was Iyer’s unprecedented achievement—he became the first player in IPL history to captain three different teams into the playoffs.
To appreciate the magnitude of this feat, consider this: only five players have ever captained three IPL franchises—Steve Smith, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Ajinkya Rahane, and Shreyas Iyer.
Of these, only Sangakkara and Iyer did so as full-time captains. But only Iyer has managed to take all three teams to the playoffs, a record that speaks volumes about his leadership and cricketing intelligence.
The Shreyas Iyer Effect: Transforming Teams, Inspiring Players
Shreyas Iyer’s journey as a leader is nothing short of inspirational. He first took over the Delhi Capitals (DC) captaincy in 2018, inheriting a team that had long been the IPL’s perennial underachievers.
Under his guidance, DC underwent a remarkable transformation. In 2019, he led them to the playoffs, and in 2020, he took them all the way to their first-ever IPL final. Iyer’s partnership with coach Ricky Ponting was instrumental in turning Delhi into genuine title contenders, and his calm, composed leadership style won him admirers across the cricketing world.
But Iyer’s leadership journey didn’t end there. In 2024, he was handed the reins of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), a team with a rich history but a decade-long title drought. Iyer’s impact was immediate and profound. He instilled belief in the squad, made bold tactical decisions, and led from the front.
The result? KKR lifted their third IPL trophy, and Iyer celebrated his maiden title as a captain. Despite this success, KKR made the surprising decision to release him ahead of the 2025 season—a move that would soon be seen as a turning point in IPL history.
The Punjab Kings Revival: A New Era Begins
The 2025 IPL mega auction saw Punjab Kings make a statement of intent by signing Shreyas Iyer for a record ₹26.75 crore. The expectations were sky-high. PBKS had not reached the playoffs since 2014, and the pressure to deliver was immense. But Iyer, true to his reputation, embraced the challenge with open arms.
Throughout the season, Iyer’s leadership was evident in every aspect of PBKS’s campaign. He backed young players, made shrewd tactical calls, and fostered a culture of belief and resilience.
With 8 wins in 12 matches, Punjab Kings not only secured a playoff spot but also reignited the hopes of their passionate fanbase. The “Iyer effect” was in full swing—PBKS were no longer just participants; they were genuine contenders.
What Makes Shreyas Iyer a Standout Leader?
Shreyas Iyer’s success as a captain is built on a foundation of strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and the ability to inspire those around him. His overall captaincy win percentage stands at an impressive 56.35%, and in the 2025 season, he’s operating at a remarkable 66.7%. But statistics only tell part of the story.
Iyer’s true strength lies in his adaptability. Whether it was nurturing young talent at Delhi, managing big personalities at KKR, or reviving a struggling PBKS outfit, Iyer has consistently demonstrated that great leadership is about more than just tactics—it’s about belief, trust, and vision.
He has an uncanny ability to read the game, make bold decisions under pressure, and bring out the best in his players.
The Road Ahead: Is Shreyas Iyer India’s Next Captain?
With his latest achievement, the calls for Iyer to take on greater leadership roles in Indian cricket are growing louder. Many experts and fans now see him as a future captain of the national team, citing his calm demeanor, sharp cricketing brain, and proven track record under pressure. As the IPL playoffs approach, all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer and the Punjab Kings.
Can he script another fairytale and add a third IPL title to his resume? Regardless of what happens next, one thing is certain: Shreyas Iyer has already secured his place in IPL folklore as the “Captain Perfect”—a leader who dared to dream, and delivered.
Why Shreyas Iyer’s Story Matters
In a league where star power often overshadows substance, Shreyas Iyer’s journey is a reminder that true greatness is built on perseverance, adaptability, and the courage to lead from the front. His record-breaking feat is not just a personal milestone—it’s an inspiration for every aspiring cricketer and a testament to the transformative power of leadership.
So, the next time you tune in to watch the IPL, remember the name Shreyas Iyer. He’s not just making history—he’s redefining it, one playoff run at a time.
FAQ:-
When did Shreyas Iyer became captain?
He had earlier led Delhi Capitals in 2019 and 2020, and Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024, before repeating the feat with Punjab this season.
What is the record of Shreyas Iyer in IPL?
Shreyas Iyer has made history by becoming the first captain to lead three franchises to IPL playoffs, guiding Punjab Kings to their first playoff appearance in 11 years. He is also the second highest run scorer this season with 435 runs in 12 matches.
