Speaking about how he lifts himself during challenging phases, Iyer underlined that true maturity as a cricketer is built as much off the field as on it, particularly through handling rejection and adversity early in life.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cMaturity as a cricketer comes from learning outside the field. From facing rejections and losing games. As a kid, during my matches and selection trials, I faced many difficult moments. Ups and downs are part of everyone\u2019s life. I believe the faster you bounce back from tough times and turn them into positives, the better. Self-talk matters a lot. People will always try to pull you down, but how you pick yourself up is what counts,\u201d Iyer told JioStar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 31-year-old, who is currently leading Punjab Kings in a strong IPL 2026 campaign, highlighted that maintaining balance and perspective has been key to sustaining performance levels in a high-pressure environment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cSometimes I read books that make me feel good. I try to shift my mind away from cricket. I go on a holiday, spend time alone. Letting go is very important. You set a goal and want to achieve it. But you also need to tell yourself that if it doesn\u2019t happen, it\u2019s fine. Accept it and move on. Otherwise, you keep thinking about what went wrong and fall further behind. I reached a point where I realised that even if I don\u2019t achieve a particular goal, it\u2019s okay. You move on and try to achieve something else,\u201d Iyer added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Iyer\u2019s reflections come amid a phase where his leadership and batting form have been central to Punjab\u2019s rise as one of the most consistent sides this season. His approach, rooted in clarity of thought and emotional resilience, has also been credited by teammates and support staff with fostering a positive, driven team environment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Recalling an early memory that left a lasting impression on him, Iyer spoke about his first close interaction with former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan during the inaugural IPL season, when he was serving as a ball boy.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Iyer\u2019s reflections come amid a phase where his leadership and batting form have been central to Punjab\u2019s rise as one of the most consistent sides this season. His approach, rooted in clarity of thought and emotional resilience, has also been credited by teammates and support staff with fostering a positive, driven team environment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The in-form Punjab Kings will next face the Rajasthan Royals at their home ground in New Chandigarh on Tuesday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n