Shreyas Iyer continues to underline his importance as both a leader and a dependable batter for Punjab Kings in IPL 2026. Having already guided Kolkata Knight Riders to a title in 2024, Iyer followed it up by leading PBKS to their first playoff appearance and an IPL final in 2025, ending a long 11-year wait. This season, Punjab have carried that momentum forward with two consecutive wins, reflecting the balance and clarity Iyer has brought to the setup.

Despite his consistent performances in franchise cricket and domestic tournaments, Iyer’s place in India’s T20I plans remains uncertain. The 31-year-old’s exclusion from the T20 World Cup 2026 squad has sparked fresh debate around his role in the shortest format, especially given his proven track record as a captain.

Backing his skipper strongly, PBKS pacer Vyshak Vijaykumar praised Iyer’s leadership qualities and even tipped him as a future captain of the Indian T20I side.

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“I think he’s someone who has always backed his bowlers and players. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been doing well or not, that is something very important for a bowler. He’s done exceptionally well in this format and has been playing for India. I’m sure he’ll be the Indian captain soon,” Vijaykumar Vyshak said.

Vyshak himself has made a strong impact this season, picking up five wickets in two matches—already bettering his tally from last year. His effectiveness has come from smart variations, particularly wide yorkers and slower bouncers, which have proven crucial in high-scoring encounters against teams like the Gujarat Titans and the Chennai Super Kings.

Heading into the clash against his former side KKR at Eden Gardens, Vyshak highlighted the mindset required to succeed in modern T20 cricket, where 200-plus totals have become the norm.

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“Honestly, it’s all about how I feel about the game when I’m bowling. If I’m confident, especially with my yorkers, I back myself regardless of the batter,” he explained. “It doesn’t matter if it goes for a boundary or a six. If it’s a good shot, you move on, reset, and trust your execution again,” he added.

With players buying into Iyer’s leadership and clarity of roles, PBKS look like a well-drilled unit this season.