Shreyas Iyer Poised for Success as New T20I Captain, Says Rohit Sharma
Shreyas Iyer's Leadership Journey
Navigating the competitive landscape of Mumbai cricket is a formidable challenge, especially when it comes to leading a team. However, Rohit Sharma is confident that Shreyas Iyer, with his remarkable captaincy track record in the IPL, is well-prepared for the task ahead.
Recently, Shreyas was appointed as the new captain for India's T20 team, marking a significant shift as Suryakumar Yadav was dropped. This change comes as the three-time World Cup champions gear up for crucial tournaments, including the Asia Cup and the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2028.
Rohit highlighted Shreyas' successful IPL tenure, where he led the Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in 2024 and guided the Punjab Kings to the finals in 2025, as vital experiences that will serve him well in his new role.
"Given his recent captaincy performances, I believe he will excel in this position," Rohit, who is also the brand ambassador for the T20 Mumbai League, remarked during a recent event.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by Mumbai cricketers, Rohit emphasized that earning the title of captain is no small feat. He stated, "Playing for Mumbai imparts invaluable lessons. Anyone who has captained India or Mumbai will attest to the fact that nothing is handed to you easily. It requires hard work and dedication."
He further elaborated, "Captaincy is something that must be earned, along with the respect of your peers, and I believe Shreyas possesses these qualities."
Rohit also commended Suryakumar's leadership, which led to India securing their third T20 World Cup title earlier this year, noting the perseverance required to reach such heights.
"Surya's journey has not been easy, especially considering he made his international debut at 30 or 31. His determination to succeed is commendable," Rohit added.
Suryakumar, who recently captained the Triumph Knights Mumbai North East against the Sobo Mumbai Falcons, expressed his joy at seeing another Mumbai player take charge of the national T20I team.
"It's a proud moment for us, having three consecutive Mumbai captains leading the T20I team. We should all celebrate this achievement," he stated during the toss.
Rohit also praised the exceptional talent showcased in the fourth edition of the T20 Mumbai League, which is being held alongside the inaugural women's edition.
"The level of talent on display is astonishing, and it's exactly what we aim for. This league provides a fantastic platform for players to showcase their skills," he concluded.