Shreyas Iyer is set to begin a new chapter in his career as he prepares to lead India for the first time as a full-time T20I captain in the opening match of the two-game series against Ireland in Belfast on Friday, June 26. While expectations are naturally high following India’s successful T20 World Cup campaign, former India batter Mohammad Kaif believes Iyer has one significant advantage that could make his transition into the leadership role much smoother.

Speaking ahead of the series opener, Mohammad Kaif argued that captaining the Indian team is, in many ways, less demanding than leading an IPL franchise. According to him, international players already understand their responsibilities, allowing the captain to focus more on strategy and execution rather than managing individual roles.

His comments came shortly after Iyer delivered his first motivational speech to the Indian squad, outlining his vision of building a strong and supportive team culture.

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Mohammad Kaif explained that IPL captains face a unique challenge every season, having to balance Indian and overseas stars while integrating uncapped youngsters into the playing XI. Building combinations, mentoring emerging players and handling constant squad changes require far more day-to-day management than most people realise.

“I think it will be a little easier for him. IPL captaincy is tougher because you have to identify the right combination, manage overseas players and groom young cricketers. With the Indian team, every player already knows his role and understands what the coaches expect. That naturally makes the captain’s job easier,” Mohammad Kaif said on his YouTube channel.

The former India cricketer also believes Iyer will confidently express his opinions within the team environment, particularly regarding his preferred batting position. Kaif clarified that this should not be mistaken for conflict with head coach Gautam Gambhir, but rather a captain presenting his case in the best interests of both himself and the team.

India head into the Ireland series with a perfect record against the hosts in T20 internationals, having won all eight previous meetings. Their most recent encounter came during the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York, where India extended their unbeaten run.

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The Belfast clash will also mark India’s first-ever T20I at Stormont Cricket Ground. Interestingly, their only previous international appearance at the venue came in an ODI against Ireland in 2007, when current head coach Gautam Gambhir starred with an unbeaten 80 and was named Player of the Match. Nearly two decades later, Gambhir returns to the same ground in a very different role, hoping to guide Shreyas Iyer and a new-look India side to another winning start.