Punjab Kings’ captain Shreyas Iyer shared how criticism of his struggle against short balls motivated him to improve his game during IPL 2026. Iyer acknowledged the doubts about his ability but used them as fuel to work harder and enhance his skills. He emphasized the shift in his mindset towards attacking short deliveries, aiming to hit them for sixes instead of playing defensively.
Iyer revealed his training regimen, focusing on facing over 300 balls during practice to better understand his strengths. He emphasized the importance of adapting to different situations and working with coaches to refine his technique. The 29-year-old’s transformation has been evident in Punjab Kings’ successful season, where his aggressive batting style and improved control against pace have been instrumental in the team’s strong performance.
The recent victory over Delhi Capitals showcased Punjab Kings’ batting prowess, with Iyer’s impressive 76 off 36 balls contributing significantly to the team’s win. Alongside technical adjustments, Iyer emphasized the significance of mental resilience in overcoming challenges, including injuries and external criticism. He highlighted the need to prove doubters wrong and maintain a positive mindset to bounce back stronger after setbacks.
Under Iyer’s leadership and coach Ricky Ponting’s guidance, Punjab Kings have fostered a team culture focused on clarity and freedom. The team’s exceptional performance this season has positioned them at the top of the IPL 2026 table, showcasing their balanced and competitive approach in the tournament.
