Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer has emerged as one of the standout leaders of IPL 2026, guiding his side to a remarkable campaign and strengthening their hopes of winning a maiden IPL title after nearly two decades. With Punjab sitting at the top end of the points table, Shreyas’ captaincy has drawn widespread praise from former players and experts alike.
Former India batter Suresh Raina recently compared Shreyas’ leadership style and on-field presence to legendary former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin. Speaking about the PBKS skipper, Raina highlighted the confidence and fearlessness that Shreyas brings to every franchise he represents.
“Wherever he has gone, whichever franchise he has played for, he has brought a different brand of cricket,” Suresh Raina said. “He has been fearless as a captain and has led from the front. Be it Delhi, KKR or Punjab, you can see why he is a good leader because the communication off the field seems to be brilliant.”
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Raina also praised the stylish batter’s body language and calm personality, saying it reminded him of Azharuddin’s captaincy days. “When Mohammad Azharuddin used to lead India, the players around him had a different level of confidence. Shreyas has that same swagger and composure,” he added.
The former Chennai Super Kings star further pointed out that Shreyas combines calm decision-making with aggressive intent, something that has reflected in Punjab Kings’ fearless brand of cricket this season.
Shreyas has already established himself as one of the most successful captains in recent IPL history, having led Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Punjab Kings to IPL finals. He also guided KKR to a title triumph before taking Punjab to the final last season.
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With PBKS once again looking like genuine title contenders in IPL 2026, Shreyas will now aim to complete unfinished business and finally deliver the franchise its long-awaited first championship.
