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Indore Pink Panthers has firepower to lift the trophy, says skipper Iyer
Indore: With the Madhya Pradesh League 2025 commencing in just two days,
, who takes over leadership duties this season for Indore Pink Panthers, believes that while the team has the firepower to lift the trophy.
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"We have the ingredients to be champions.
But temperament, not just talent, decides the outcome. If we handle pressure well, we'll be right in the race. Our aim is clear—we're playing to lift the trophy," said Venkatesh Iyer, as he prepares to lead Indore Pink Panthers.
With a refreshed squad and a focused strategy, the team is looking to make a strong impact in the tournament, scheduled to be held in Gwalior from June 12 to 24.
Iyer, India all-rounder and KKR vice-captain in IPL 2025, takes over as captain from Rajat Patidar in what marks a new chapter for the team.
"The basic plan is always to win," Iyer told TOI. "But I've played enough cricket to understand that in a tournament like this, success comes from taking one game at a time. My first priority is to ensure every player aligns their personal goals with the team's larger mission." Calling it a "special honour" to lead his hometown team, Iyer said, "For any cricketer, it's a dream to play in front of packed stadiums.
MPL has become a platform that allows young cricketers from across the state to live that dream.
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This season brings a near-complete overhaul of the Panthers' line-up, with only three players retained from the previous edition. IPL pacer Kulwant Khejroliya (Gujarat Titans) has joined the squad, adding firepower to the bowling unit. The franchise has also introduced emerging talents like all-rounder Siddhant Agarwal and wicketkeeper-batter Mehfooz Patel, both nurtured through the team's Player Development Program in collaboration with MPL.
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Talking about Madhya Pradesh's cricketing rise, Iyer credited the growing seriousness around domestic cricket. "Today, teams take us seriously. The mindset in Ranji and Mushtaq Ali tournaments is to win. A lot of that shift is thanks to Chandrakant Pandit sir's leadership and discipline. MP cricket is no longer underestimated."
