Ravichandran Ashwin Praises Shreyas Iyer as an Inspirational Leader

by

Ganpat Singh Chouhan

Ravichandran Ashwin Praises Shreyas Iyer as an Inspirational Leader

New Delhi, April 19: Former Indian cricket team off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has commended Shreyas Iyer for his captaincy and batting performance for Punjab Kings over the past two years. Ashwin noted that Iyer is emerging as a leader from whom players draw inspiration.

In a segment on ESPN Cricinfo’s Timeout program, Ashwin remarked, “Iyer’s form with the bat is aiding his captaincy. He is fostering a positive environment within the team. There is camaraderie. I have played in teams where there is always a barrier, making it difficult to approach the captain or coach. That’s not the case in Punjab.”

He added, “The simplicity he brings to the game is reminiscent of playing tennis-ball cricket in the neighborhood, where we constantly engage with our captain or friends. The atmosphere is fantastic. I believe that as he continues to bat well, he is stepping into a leadership role that players admire.”

Ashwin believes that Iyer is intimidating bowlers with his presence on the crease, as he consistently works on improving his game. “Many lack the desire to step out of their comfort zones and address their weaknesses. You’ve seen careers where individuals neglect their shortcomings. Iyer is not one of them.”

In IPL 2026, Iyer has scored 50, an unbeaten 69, and 66 runs in his last three innings. He has amassed 203 runs at a strike rate of 187.96 across five matches. Punjab Kings currently leads the points table with four wins and one point from a rain-affected match, totaling nine points.

Leave a Comment