In a remarkable feat, Shreyas Iyer has etched his name in the annals of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the first captain to lead three different franchises to the tournament’s final.
His leadership journey, marked by strategic acumen and consistent performance, underscores his significant impact on the league.
A Historic Milestone in IPL Leadership
Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy record is unparalleled in the IPL. He first showcased his leadership prowess with the Delhi Capitals, guiding them to their maiden final in 2020.
Subsequently, he led the Kolkata Knight Riders to the final in 2024, securing the championship title. Now, in 2025, he has steered the Punjab Kings to the final, marking his third successful campaign with a different team.
Iyer’s Captaincy Record
| Team | Year | Matches | Wins | Win % | Final Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi Capitals | 2020 | 17 | 9 | 52.9% | Runner-up |
| Kolkata Knight Riders | 2024 | 16 | 11 | 68.8% | Champion |
| Punjab Kings | 2025 | 14 | 9 | 64.3% | Finalist |
Leading from the Front: Iyer’s 2025 Performance
Beyond his captaincy, Iyer has been instrumental with the bat. In the 2025 season, he amassed 514 runs at an impressive average of 51.40 and a striking rate of 171.90, including 38 fours and 31 sixes.
His performance not only anchored the team’s batting lineup but also inspired confidence among teammates.
Punjab Kings’ Resurgence Under Iyer
The Punjab Kings’ journey to the 2025 final marks their first appearance in the IPL playoffs since 2014. Iyer’s leadership has been pivotal in this resurgence, fostering a cohesive unit that thrives on collective performance.
His strategic decisions and ability to motivate players have transformed the team’s dynamics.
Comparative Analysis: Iyer vs. Other Captains
| Captain | Teams Led to Final | Total Finals | Championships |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shreyas Iyer | 3 | 3 | 1 |
| MS Dhoni | 1 (CSK) | 10 | 5 |
| Rohit Sharma | 1 (MI) | 6 | 5 |
| Gautam Gambhir | 1 (KKR) | 2 | 2 |
Iyer’s unique achievement of leading three different teams to the final sets him apart in the league’s history.
Strategic Mastery and Team Management
Iyer’s success is attributed to his strategic foresight and adept team management. His ability to adapt to different team cultures and extract the best from players has been commendable. Under his guidance, teams have displayed resilience, tactical acumen, and a winning mentality.
The IPL 2025 Final
As the Punjab Kings prepare for the final, all eyes will be on Iyer to see if he can replicate his 2024 success with the Knight Riders.
A victory would not only add another championship to his resume but also solidify his legacy as one of the IPL’s most successful captains.
Shreyas Iyer’s journey through the IPL exemplifies leadership excellence and adaptability. His record of leading three different franchises to the final is a testament to his strategic mind and inspirational presence on the field.
As the 2025 final approaches, Iyer stands on the cusp of further cementing his place in IPL history.