‘Driven to Excel’: Punjab Kings Coach Unveils the Secret Behind Shreyas Iyer’s Explosive Comeback at Eden Gardens
NEW DELHI: As the IPL 2025 season unfolds with electrifying performances, Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer has emerged as a batting powerhouse, reigniting discussions about a potential return to the Indian national squad. Ahead of a highly anticipated clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Eden Gardens, Punjab Kings’ spin coach Sunil Joshi attributed Iyer’s resurgence to his unrelenting hunger for challenges and meticulous preparation.
Iyer, who was controversially released by Kolkata Knight Riders after captaining them to the IPL 2024 title, has roared back with a vengeance. His unbeaten knocks of 97 and 52 in the opening matches of the 2025 season have silenced critics and showcased a renewed intent. Returning to Eden Gardens—where he lifted the IPL trophy last year—feels like a poetic homecoming, yet Iyer remains focused on the ultimate goal: victory.
“Shreyas has always had the mindset of a champion. If you trace his journey from the Champions Trophy 2025 onwards, his consistency, especially against spin, has been remarkable,” Joshi said in a fiery pre-match press conference. “He faces every ball, every challenge with grit. That’s what defines a top-tier player.” During the Champions Trophy, Iyer anchored India’s middle order with an impressive average of 48.60, scoring two fifties in five matches, proving his mettle on the global stage.
Behind the scenes, Iyer’s resurgence isn’t just mental fortitude—it’s a product of technical mastery. Joshi revealed that Iyer has adopted a more open stance and a deeper crease position to tackle the menacing short ball, a tweak that has paid dividends. “He’s worked tirelessly on his game. You can see the results in his confidence against pace and spin alike,” Joshi noted. This adaptation has made Iyer a formidable force, averaging over 45 in domestic T20s leading into the IPL.
Leadership, too, has been a cornerstone of Iyer’s journey. Joshi praised his ability to inspire, saying, “Shreyas connects with everyone—from senior players to net bowlers. He builds confidence and fosters unity. That’s the hallmark of a genuine leader.” This inclusive approach has galvanized Punjab Kings, who sit atop the IPL 2025 points table with three wins in four matches.
Despite the emotional weight of returning to Eden Gardens, Iyer remains unfazed. “Every match matters. Our approach is unwavering—play to win,” Joshi emphasized, echoing Iyer’s no-nonsense mantra. The 30-year-old batter, who smashed 351 runs in IPL 2024 with a strike rate of 146.86, seems determined to let his bat do the talking against his former franchise.
While whispers of Iyer’s potential recall for India’s upcoming England tour grow louder, Joshi steered clear of selection debates. “Let’s focus on the IPL. I’m not the person to comment on national team selections,” he said, keeping the spotlight on the immediate battle against KKR, a team eager to reclaim dominance after a shaky start to their 2025 campaign.
As the Punjab Kings gear up for this blockbuster encounter on April 15, 2025, all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer. Will he haunt his old team with another match-winning knock, or will KKR’s bowlers exact revenge on their home turf? One thing is certain—Eden Gardens is set for a clash of titans, fueled by passion, skill, and a captain’s undeniable resolve to excel.