01 Shreyas Iyer

A master of middle-over dominance and a proven leader in high-pressure situations, Shreyas Iyer (born December 6, 1994) has solidified his status as one of modern cricket’s most tactical and explosive batters. Known for his “spin-choke” breaking ability and elegant stroke play, Iyer’s career reached new heights in 2025 as he captained the Punjab Kings (PBKS) to their most successful season in a decade.

As of January 21, 2026, Shreyas Iyer is serving as the Vice-Captain of the Indian team in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand. Fresh from leading PBKS to the IPL 2025 Final, Iyer is currently managing a recovery program for a minor spleen injury sustained in late 2025 but remains a central pillar of India’s white-ball core and the face of the Punjab franchise.

Shreyas Iyer: Player Profile & 2025–26 Career Peak

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy Triumph

Shreyas Iyer was instrumental in India’s 2025 ICC Champions Trophy victory. He finished the tournament as India’s highest run-getter, amassing 243 runs at an average of 48.60. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate during the middle overs was the tactical difference-maker in India’s title-winning run, earning him widespread acclaim as the world’s premier No. 4 batter.

IPL 2025: The Punjab Transformation

Following a record-shattering ₹26.75 Crore acquisition in the 2025 mega-auction, Iyer took over the captaincy of Punjab Kings and immediately transformed the franchise’s fortunes.

• The Record Run: He enjoyed his most prolific IPL season ever, scoring 604 runs with a staggering strike rate of 175.07.

• Leading from the Front: Iyer led PBKS to the IPL 2025 Final, where they narrowly lost to RCB. His leadership, alongside head coach Ricky Ponting, turned PBKS into the league’s most consistent side.

IPL 2026: The “Retention” Strategy

For the IPL 2026 season, Shreyas Iyer has been retained by PBKS as captain. In the December 2025 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi, Iyer was spotted at the head of the auction table, personally overseeing the acquisition of new talent like Cooper Connolly and Ben Dwarshuis to complete the squad for the 2026 title quest.

Shreyas Iyer: Career Statistics

Data consolidated as of January 21, 2026.

IPL Batting & Fielding Records

Recent International Highlights (Jan 2026 vs NZ)

• 1st ODI (Vadodara): 49 (47 balls) — High-impact return as Vice-Captain.

• Champions Trophy 2025: 243 runs — India’s leading scorer.