- June 4, 2025
Let’s be honest—IPL 2025 was crazy. Dramatic last-ball finishes, breakout performances from players we’ve never heard of, the season had it all. But if one storyline took center stage more than any other, it had to be the redemption arc and leadership brilliance of Shreyas Iyer. The man went from question marks to exclamation points, leading a young and somewhat undervalued Punjab Kings team into the final. They may not have won the trophy, but the legacy of this season could be Iyer’s emergence as one of the best captains the IPL has seen.
Shreyas Iyer’s Journey from Doubt to Command
At one time, there was a situation where Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy was scrutinized. After his time in Delhi, injury concerns and other team shifts left many to question whether he would ever lead again. Today is IPL 2025, and here he is—taking a team full of young stars and uncapped players to the big dance.
It wasn’t just tactical; it was a belief. Iyer made tough decisions in backing new players like Priyansh Arya (who only had DPL experience!) and had faith in his underdogs by giving them consistent roles. He built a culture in the squad that made them punch well above their weight. His field placement was brave, his bowling changes were smart, and most importantly, his temperament was solid.
This was no one-off lucky season. Iyer was reading pitches like an old hand, adjusting plans mid-game, and had a calm level of intensity that affected the entire team. You don’t see that every season, especially one where a captain was being written off.
Punjab Kings 2.0: A Promising Core Built for the Future
Let’s take a moment to discuss the Punjab side. If you pulled up their lineup in March, you’d think they were building for 2027. But they showed up. For real.
Uncapped players performed like experienced veterans. They played fearlessly, and not because they weren’t aware of the stakes, but because they trusted the process. A fair amount of that came from the environment Iyer built. Coaches and analysts can only do so much—when a young player feels support from his captain, the magic happens.
Punjab’s campaign might have fallen a little short of a trophy, but it is pretty clear that the enduring victory is in full view. They are no longer a team but rather a rising movement.
The Impact of Varun Aaron’s Praise on Punjab Kings’ Emerging Fan Culture
One of the most significant comments came after the match when Varun Aaron, in the commentary box, made a comment that stuck with me. Varun said, “I think he has (Shreyas Iyer) established himself as one of the best captains in the IPL.” Quite frankly, I don’t think Varun is wrong.
Leadership is more than just hoisting trophies. Leadership is about changing a group of people, raising expectations, creating belief, and establishing a tone. And Iyer accomplished all of this while bringing the Punjab Kings into history like they had never seen before.
Shreyas Iyer may not have held the trophy at IPL 2025, but he received something that is infinitely more nebulous—respect, recognition, and a legacy in development. He took a team made up of kids and turned them into contenders; he connected with a fan base; he showed that great leaders are not great because of great names—they are great because of great moments.
Now here’s some food for thought: Is this only the start of a very golden era for Punjab Kings with Iyer as their captain? What do you think—do Punjab Kings have what it takes to go all the way next year with Iyer? Let’s chat in the comments!
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