Ashwin Backs Shreyas Iyer’s Rise, Says PBKS Captain Is ‘On the Journey from Good to Great’

Veteran India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has heaped praise on Shreyas Iyer, calling the Punjab Kings captain a player “in the zone” and on a clear path from being good to potentially great.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show, Ashwin highlighted Iyer’s commanding presence at the crease and the consistency he has displayed across the last two IPL seasons. Iyer’s recent form in Indian Premier League 2026 has been particularly impressive, with scores of 50, 69* and 66 in his last three innings, striking at nearly 188.

Ashwin emphasized that Iyer’s impact goes beyond numbers. According to him, the batter’s body language and composure reflect a player operating at peak confidence. “When he marks guard, it feels like he’s in a different zone altogether,” Ashwin noted, describing it as a phase where everything — preparation, mindset, and execution — aligns perfectly.

A key factor behind Iyer’s evolution, Ashwin said, is his willingness to address weaknesses. Long criticized for his struggles against short-pitched bowling, Iyer has actively worked to counter that narrative. Ashwin pointed to moments such as Iyer confidently taking on top pacers like Jasprit Bumrah, including pulling him for six, as evidence of his growth mindset.

“He’s not shying away from challenges. That willingness to improve is what defines the journey from good to great,” Ashwin explained.

Iyer’s batting form has also translated into leadership success. Under his captaincy, Punjab Kings reached the IPL final in 2025 and have continued their strong run in 2026, sitting at the top of the table with four wins from five matches. Ashwin credited Iyer for fostering a relaxed and open team environment, where communication flows freely between players and leadership.

“He’s created a brotherhood within the team,” Ashwin said. “That comfort allows players to express themselves and deliver.”

Ashwin also weighed in on the ongoing debate about Iyer’s place in India’s T20I setup. Despite India’s recent success without him, including multiple global titles, Ashwin believes Iyer deserves inclusion purely on merit.

“If he doesn’t get picked, it’s not his loss — it’s ours,” Ashwin stated. “You pick the best 15 players first and then figure out combinations.”

He further underlined the depth of Indian cricket, referencing talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, but insisted that Iyer’s current form makes him impossible to ignore.

With his batting flourishing and leadership maturing, Iyer appears to be entering a defining phase of his career — one that could soon cement his place among India’s elite in the shortest format.