Is Shreyas Iyer the most underrated captain?

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Anil Kumble praised Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy

New Delhi. Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble has praised Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy skills ahead of IPL 2026. He said that Iyer is a real underrated captain, who has achieved remarkable success in different franchises.

Shreyas Iyer’s IPL journey

This time Shreyas Iyer will take the field as the captain of Punjab Kings (PBKS). This will be his second season with this franchise. Last season, he took the team to the finals, where he scored 604 runs and his average was more than 50. However, faced defeat against RCB in the final match.

Strong praise for captaincy

Kumble said, “Shreyas Iyer is really an underrated captain. It is not easy to go and play for another team after winning a trophy with any franchise. There is a different environment and pressure in coming with a new team. The franchise he stepped into had not played the final for the last 10 years, and he took the team to the final in his first season itself.”

Iyer’s role in Punjab Kings

Shreyas Iyer made Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) champions in IPL 2024, but he was released before the IPL 2025 mega auction. Punjab Kings bought him for a huge sum of Rs 26.75 crore and immediately appointed him captain. Kumble said that Iyer has to prove himself every time, due to which he is called underrated.

inspiration for youth

Kumble said that Iyer has boosted the morale among the young players with his leadership. His strategy and leadership abilities have strengthened the team. Now Punjab Kings will start their campaign in IPL 2026 from March 31. The first match will be played against Gujarat Titans at Maharaja Yadvind Singh International Stadium, New Chandigarh.

future prospects

Kumble believes that Shreyas Iyer’s experience and leadership abilities will prove important for Punjab Kings. He said that Iyer is likely to get more recognition as a captain in the IPL.