Punjab Kings coach takes a subtle dig at KKR seeing Shreyas Iyer’s rise in IPL 2025

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In a season that has seen dramatic shifts in fortunes and bold decisions, Punjab Kings (PBKS) have emerged as a formidable force in IPL 2025, largely spearheaded by their captain, Shreyas Iyer. The former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper, surprisingly released by his old franchise despite leading them to the IPL 2024 title, has found a new lease on life with PBKS. His stellar transformation has not only captivated fans but has also drawn pointed remarks from his new coaching staff, subtly highlighting KKR’s controversial decision.

Ahead of a crucial league fixture, PBKS bowling coach James Hopes lauded Iyer’s remarkable development, stating, “He has stepped up a level from what he was in KKR. That just comes with playing more cricket and being more confident in what you do. We are blessed to have him in our team.” While an obvious commendation, Hopes’ words carried an unmistakable undertone, a clear nod to KKR’s choice to let go of their championship-winning captain during the 2025 mega auction.

Iyer’s performance this season has emphatically vindicated the faith placed in him by Punjab’s management. With an impressive tally of 405 runs in 11 innings at a commanding average of 50.62 and a blistering strike rate of 180.80, he has been both the linchpin of their batting lineup and the astute tactical leader. Under his dynamic stewardship, Punjab Kings have clinched seven victories in eleven matches, currently holding third position on the points table and firmly entrenched in the playoff race.

The stark contrast with KKR’s current predicament is undeniable. While Punjab’s substantial investment of ₹26.75 crore in Iyer has yielded rich dividends, KKR’s decision to retain Venkatesh Iyer for ₹23.75 crore has not mirrored such success. Venkatesh has struggled for form, managing just 142 runs in nine innings at a modest average of 20.28. Moreover, KKR have visibly grappled with the leadership void left by Shreyas’s departure, a difference that many observers have termed ‘too big to ignore.’

PBKS spin coach Sunil Joshi further elaborated on Iyer’s exemplary attitude, crediting his hunger for challenges and his readiness to shoulder responsibility. “He has shown the hunger and he is ready to accept every challenge he comes across. For any player of that calibre, you accept every challenge, every ball. I am sure that he has done some great work behind the scenes. It’s a good momentum to carry forward as a leader as well,” Joshi remarked, underscoring Iyer’s profound impact beyond mere statistics.

Iyer’s move to Punjab has also rekindled his successful partnership with head coach Ricky Ponting, a duo that previously forged a formidable bond at Delhi Capitals (DC). Ponting’s renowned aggressive and strategic approach appears to have seamlessly integrated with Iyer’s matured leadership, cultivating a powerful synergy within the PBKS dugout.

As the league phase approaches its thrilling conclusion, the subtle barbs from the Punjab Kings camp serve as both a jubilant celebration of Iyer’s extraordinary growth and a poignant reminder of the high-stakes gambles that invariably define the IPL auctions. For now, it is unequivocally PBKS – and not KKR – who are triumphantly reaping the rewards of Iyer’s remarkable evolution.