NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Gujarat Titans on Tuesday, with Shreyas Iyer leading the charge in his first match as captain. The franchise, still searching for its elusive maiden title after 18 years, hopes Iyer’s proven leadership will inspire a turnaround. Iyer previously guided Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL title and took Delhi Capitals to the final in 2020, making him an ideal candidate to revitalise Punjab’s fortunes.
Punjab Kings have struggled to make an impact in recent seasons, failing to break into the top five in the last four editions. Their best performances came in 2014, when they finished as runners-up, and in 2018, reaching the semifinals. The franchise’s decision to appoint Iyer as captain marks a fresh approach, complemented by a reunion with coach Ricky Ponting, with whom Iyer has shared past successes.
