Shreyas Iyer has scripted a remarkable chapter in IPL history. On Sunday, as Punjab Kings (PBKS) booked their place in the IPL 2025 playoffs after an 11-year gap, Iyer etched his name in the record books by becoming the first-ever captain to lead three different franchises into the playoffs.
Only five players have captained three different IPL franchises — Steve Smith, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Ajinkya Rahane, and now Iyer. But only Sangakkara and Iyer have done so as full-time captains — and none except Iyer have taken all three into the playoffs.
Shreyas Iyer – Underrated IPL leader
The Punjab Kings recorded a terrific 10-run victory over the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Jaipur. PBKS’ qualification was guaranteed when the Gujarat Titans beat Delhi Capitals later in the night game on Sunday, May 18.
Terrifically, this made Shreyas Iyer a record holder of a fantastic feat that hasn’t been achieved by any other captain. The achievement is as rare as it is impressive. Having previously guided Delhi Capitals (2019, 2020) and Kolkata Knight Riders (2024) to the knockouts, Iyer has now replicated the feat with Punjab Kings — a side that hadn’t made it to the playoffs since 2014.
The Shreyas Iyer effect!
Delhi Capitals (2019–2020):
Iyer’s leadership credentials emerged when he took over DC’s captaincy midway through 2018 from Gautam Gambhir. In 2020, he guided them to their first-ever IPL final, transforming a side known for inconsistency into genuine contenders. He was alongside Ricky Ponting and the duo made DC title contenders.
Kolkata Knight Riders (2024):
In his second captaincy stint, Iyer delivered KKR their third IPL title — their first in a decade. It was truly commendable for Iyer as he won his maiden IPL title as a leader. Unfortunately for KKR, they released him next year and are now already out of IPL 2025, while Iyer is hunting for glory again.
Punjab Kings (2025):
Bought for a record Rs 26.75 crore at the mega auction, Iyer took charge of a team starved of success. With 8 wins in 12 matches, Punjab have roared back into relevance under his leadership — ending an 11-year playoff drought.
With a captaincy win percentage of 56.35 overall, and 66.7% this season, Shreyas Iyer is perhaps an Indian captain in making!
Captain perfect! Shreyas Iyer becomes first player to achieve this feat in IPL history Inside Sport India.
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