Shreyas Iyer joined Punjab Kings\u2019 management at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, becoming only the second cricketer, after Rishabh Pant, to be a part of the process.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThere is no pressure as such. We had several meetings before coming here, and the way we have planned and prepared, everyone feels quite relaxed. We know exactly what we want,\" Iyer told JioStar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
On the role of analytical data in auction strategy, he said, \u201cAnalytical data definitely plays a big role. We have two analysts in our team, and the experience and depth of information they provide is immense. I don\u2019t know everything that\u2019s on the table yet, but once I sit down, I\u2019ll get a clearer picture. I\u2019m sure things are already buzzing. I can see it on the screen, and I\u2019m really looking forward to the experience and what it has to offer.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Iyer, who left Kolkata Knight Riders after the team\u2019s victorious IPL 2024 campaign, was roped in by PBKS at the IPL 2025 mega-auction for a whopping Rs. 26.75 crore and handed the leadership duties.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
His captaincy proved critical for the team, as they reached only their second final in the tournament\u2019s history, only to lose the title to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who lifted their maiden cup.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Iyer further recognised the transition the team has undergone over the past year to build a more stable squad. Crediting head coach Ricky Ponting for this change, he said, \u201cI feel it all started with Ricky coming on board. He is fabulous. His player management skills are amazing. He provides confidence and freedom to every individual, from the most senior player to the newcomers.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He continued: \u201cWhen you have people like that alongside you, it gives a player immense motivation and confidence. I felt that basically gave us the liberty to go out there and perform to the best of our abilities.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Iyer further recognised the transition the team has undergone over the past year to build a more stable squad. Crediting head coach Ricky Ponting for this change, he said, \u201cI feel it all started with Ricky coming on board. He is fabulous. His player management skills are amazing. He provides confidence and freedom to every individual, from the most senior player to the newcomers.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He further added, \u201cWe have to rebuild the family. A lot of players will be returning from international duty, so I don\u2019t think we can implement changes immediately. We need a practice game to gel and bond as a team. Then we can identify what we want to work on.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n