Shreyas Iyer's Ambition for Punjab Kings in IPL 2026

Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer has voiced his strong determination to lead his team to IPL glory in 2026, building on their runners-up achievement from the previous season. As the Indian ODI vice-captain, Iyer guided PBKS to their second final and third playoff appearance overall in IPL 2025.

Speaking at the team's official jersey launch event on Friday, March 20, Iyer embraced the heightened expectations. "Expectations are high, which is fun. I love the challenge. But the important thing is that whenever we step in, we have to win. My eye is on the trophy," he declared.

Iyer also shared insights into his personal journey following a ruptured spleen injury sustained during India's tour of Australia in October 2025. The injury required surgery and sidelined him for over two months. He lost seven kilograms during recovery but worked diligently to regain his form, making a comeback for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before featuring in the ODIs against New Zealand in January 2026.

"It is always challenging to come back after an injury. I had lost around seven kilos and it took a lot of effort to gain that weight back. But I love challenges. I am glad I overcame that part of my life, and I am back here proudly representing the team," Iyer reflected.

Last Season's Performance and Upcoming Campaign

In IPL 2025, Punjab Kings fell short by six runs to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final held in Ahmedabad. Despite the heartbreak, Iyer had a remarkable tournament, scoring 604 runs at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 175.07. His standout performance was an unbeaten 87 against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2.

Looking ahead, PBKS will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign with a home match against Gujarat Titans in New Chandigarh on Tuesday, March 31.