Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin recently praised Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer for his exceptional captaincy over the years. Iyer, who led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title in 2024, was surprisingly released during the 2025 IPL mega auction, much to the shock of Iyer and KKR fans. Despite winning the championship, KKR chose to part ways with him, leaving many puzzled.
On this sudden decision, Shreyas Iyer did not publicly comment but moved on to the Punjab Kings as captain and a key batter. In his debut season with Punjab, he accomplished what many thought impossible: he guided the team to the final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Although Punjab Kings fell just short of winning the trophy, Iyer proved his worth and demonstrated to KKR what they had lost.
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Shreyas Iyer’s Big Influence on the Game
Brad Haddin believes that Shreyas Iyer has a significant influence over the game, especially in the shorter formats. Since his IPL debut in 2015, Iyer has led three different teams to the finals: Delhi Capitals in 2020, KKR in 2024, and Punjab Kings in 2025.
Haddin further praised Iyer for his leadership style, highlighting his care for players. “Shreyas Iyer can influence a game on the way he plays, tactically, he’s as good a captain as I’ve seen in IPL. He’s taken 3 different teams to 3 different IPL Finals, but the thing I like most about working with Shreyas is his care for his players,” Haddin said on Cricbuzz.
Can Shreyas Iyer lead Punjab Kings across the Finish Line?
After taking Punjab Kings to the final in IPL 2025 as a captain, all eyes are on Shreyas Iyer to see how he guides the team in IPL 2026. Last season, under his leadership, Punjab Kings won 9 out of 14 games in the league stage, finishing at the top of the points table. However, they fell short in the final against RCB.
Despite the loss, Iyer and the team are determined to make a stronger push this season. Punjab has retained 21 players, focusing on an explosive batting core including Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, along with a solid pace attack featuring Arshdeep Singh and Marcus Stoinis.
Key Strengths of Punjab Kings’ Squad
Punjab boasts a strong side, especially after their heroic performance last year, where multiple players emerged as match-winners. At the top of the order, young talents Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh provide aggressive starts. In the bowling department, experienced players Yuzvendra Chahal, and Harpreet Brar form a reliable attack.
However, the middle order looks slightly inexperienced, with Shreyas Iyer being the only senior player. As the tournament progresses, the team is expected to find solutions to strengthen this area.
Key Aspects of the 2026 Punjab Kings Season:
Strengthened Squad: Coach Ricky Ponting believes the team has no gaps and is stronger than last year, especially with additions like Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly.
Leadership and Core: Iyer leads a team that retained the core squad that reached the 2025 final.
Batting Power: Openers Arya and Prabhsimran are expected to continue their aggressive form, supported by a solid middle order.
Bowling Strength: Arshdeep Singh remains the primary death bowler, with Chahal strengthening the spin department.
Key Additions: Cooper Connolly and pacer Ben Dwarshuis add depth and international experience, giving the team “serious intent.”
Punjab Kings will play their opening match today against the Gujarat Titans at their newly built home ground in Punjab. Fans are eager to see if Iyer can continue his excellent leadership and guide Punjab to IPL glory this season.
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