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IPL 2025: Is Shreyas Iyer PBKS's missing key to first-ever IPL glory?
For 18 seasons now, Punjab Kings (PBKS) have wandered in search of their maiden IPL title. Despite strong player investments and tactical experiments, the silverware has eluded them. In 2025, though, that story may finally take a turn, and much of that change can be credited to Shreyas Iyer. Appointed captain at the start of the season, Iyer has brought structure, belief, and a high-performance mindset to the franchise. Those within the team management say his calm presence and clear communication have been game-changers. PBKS's run to the final has been their most clinical yet , and with Iyer steering the ship, the elusive crown could finally come to the PBKS dugout.
The captain who breaks patterns and creates history
Shreyas Iyer has etched his name into IPL history by becoming the first captain to lead three different franchises to the final — Delhi Capitals (2020), Kolkata Knight Riders (2024), and now Punjab Kings (2025). What makes this achievement even more unique is his consecutive final appearances with two different teams, a feat that only the greats of the tournament have touched. Close observers suggest that Iyer's emotional control and deep tactical awareness are major reasons why teams respond so well to his leadership. PBKS insiders point out how he has unlocked performances from players like Nehal Wadhera and Priyansh Arya, while also fostering a winning culture.
Leadership that transcends the IPL arena
Iyer's impact isn't limited to the IPL. Since 2023, he has either led or played crucial roles in finals across every major format — ODI World Cup 2023, Ranji Trophy 2023–24, Irani Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024–25, and the 2025 Champions Trophy. In each of those, he either finished champion or runner-up. His winning mentality, according to former India team-mates, brings a sense of stability and ambition to every dressing room he walks into.
A rivalry rekindled from the domestic stage
The final of IPL 2025 will also serve as a continuation of a compelling captaincy rivalry. Earlier, in the 2024–25 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final, Iyer's Mumbai defeated Rajat Patidar's Madhya Pradesh. Now, the same two skippers face off again — this time, on a far bigger stage. While Patidar aims to prove himself after a shaky season, Iyer stands on the brink of being the first to win IPL titles with two different teams.
The numbers back him too
Statistically, Iyer has been nothing short of elite. With 50 wins in 86 matches and a win rate of 59.5 per cent, he ranks highest among IPL captains with 50 or more games — edging even names like Dhoni and Rohit in terms of efficiency. If PBKS lift the trophy, it will cement Iyer's place among the greatest T20 leaders of his generation — and possibly the man who finally ended Punjab's wait for an IPL trophy.
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IPL 2025
A banker by profession , a sportsman by heart,one who eats, sleeps and breathes cricket. Mantra for life - Play each ball on merits & keep the scoreboard moving. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, which concluded on June 3, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinching their maiden title against Punjab Kings (PBKS), was a showcase of emerging talent. Among the standout performers were uncapped Indian players who made significant impacts, proving their potential to be future stars. In this article, I have picked my uncapped XII, backed by key statistics from the season to highlight why they form an exciting combination. Top order: Explosive young guns 1. Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Rajasthan Royals) At just 14 years old, Vaibhav Suryavanshi became the youngest player to make waves in IPL history. Playing for Rajasthan Royals, his explosive batting was a revelation. 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Ayush Mhatre (Chennai Super Kings) Ayush Mhatre, signed as a mid-season replacement for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, emerged as a gem for Chennai Super Kings. Batting at the top, Mhatre impressed with his technique and flair, providing much needed firepower to CSK's batting in the powerplay. He scored 240 runs in 7 innings at an outstanding strike rate of 188.97. Middle order: Stability and firepower 4. Prabhsimran Singh – Wicketkeeper (Punjab Kings) Prabhsimran Singh, the wicketkeeper-batter for Punjab Kings, brought dynamism to the side along with his opening partner Priyansh. Known for his aggressive batting, he amassed 549 runs at a strike rate of 160.52 in 17 innings. As a big-hitting keeper-batter he is a vital cog in this line-up, doubling as the team's gloveman. 5. Nehal Wadhera (Punjab Kings) Nehal Wadhera, acquired by Punjab Kings for ₹4.20 crore, is a reliable middle-order batter. 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Rathi's inclusion as the lead spinner in this XI underscores his impact as one of the best uncapped bowlers in IPL 2025. 10. Anshul Kamboj (Chennai Super Kings) Anshul Kamboj, CSK's right-arm pacer, had a decent campaign, taking 8 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 21.50, with a best of 3-13. His ability to bowl at different stages of the game made him a versatile resource. Kamboj's pace and accuracy earn him a spot in this squad. 11. Yash Dayal (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) Yash Dayal, RCB's left-arm pacer, played a pivotal role in their title-winning campaign. He picked up 13 wickets at an average of 36.15, contributing to RCB's success in crucial matches. His ability to bowl tight lines and take wickets in the middle overs made him a reliable option. Dayal's experience and skill make him the spearhead of this bowling attack. Impact substitute: Ashwani Kumar (Mumbai Indians) Ashwani Kumar, Mumbai Indians' left-arm pacer, was a revelation with the ball. In 7 matches, he took 11 wickets at an average of 21.09 with a best of 4-24 on debut. His ability to swing the ball and deliver in high-pressure situations made him a key component of MI's bowling attack. His inclusion as an impact sub adds depth to the bowling unit, ready to replace a batter or bowler as needed. Why this XII stands out This uncapped XII combines youthful exuberance with match-winning potential. The top order, led by Suryavanshi, Arya, and Mhatre, provides explosive starts, while Prabhsimran, Wadhera, and Shashank offer stability and firepower in the middle. Dhir and Nigam add all-round depth, and the bowling attack—featuring Rathi's spin, Dayal's swing, Kamboj's versatility, and Kumar's pace —is well-rounded. With a blend of high strike rates, wicket-taking ability, and clutch performances, this team could rival any IPL side. This uncapped squad encapsulates the spirit of the tournament, showcasing talent that could soon dominate Indian cricket. As these players continue to grow, their IPL 2025 performances will be remembered as the launchpad for their careers. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
