Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer has garnered widespread praise following his unbeaten 97 in PBKS’s IPL 2025 opener against Gujarat Titans (GT). His knock, marking his highest score in the tournament, showcased not just his exceptional batting prowess but also his selfless attitude, a trait deeply ingrained throughout his career.
In a defining moment during the final over, Shreyas faced a golden opportunity to score his maiden IPL century. However, he selflessly urged Shashank Singh to focus on maximizing the team’s total rather than aiding in his personal milestone. This gesture epitomized team-first leadership, earning admiration from fans and former cricketers alike.
This quality of selflessness is not new for Shreyas, as affirmed by Mumbai cricketer Siddhesh Lad. Lad recounted a significant anecdote from the 2014/15 Ranji Trophy season, Shreyas’s debut season in first-class cricket.
‘Shreyas has immense self-confidence,’ Lad told TimesofIndia.com. ‘During a match against Bengal at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, Mumbai needed someone to step up and bat at the number three position. Shreyas, typically accustomed to batting at number four or five, volunteered for the role despite facing a formidable Bengal bowling attack. He went on to smash a brilliant 153 runs off 175 balls, demonstrating his initiative and dedication to the team’s success under pressure.’
Aditya Tare, a former Mumbai Indians (MI) batsman who played alongside Shreyas, echoed these sentiments. Recalling a Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh, Tare shared, ‘I was feeling tense about our target. Shreyas confidently reassured me, saying, “Don’t worry. We will chase down whatever is necessary to secure a win.” His words embodied his aggressive approach and strong desire to deliver wins for the team.’
Shreyas’s childhood coach, Pravin Amre, highlighted that Shreyas’s approach has always been marked by intent and adaptability, traits that make him an ideal T20 cricketer. ‘T20 cricket suits him perfectly, given his approach full of intent,’ Amre noted.
A source close to Shreyas revealed that his omission from the BCCI central contracts list has only fueled his determination. ‘Shreyas has worked diligently on his gameplay, particularly against short deliveries, and has emerged as an even stronger overall cricketer. His practice sessions, though brief, are highly efficient,’ the source stated.