Shreyas Iyer's Remarkable Transformation: A New Force in IPL 2025
Kane Williamson Praises Shreyas Iyer's Evolution
New Delhi [India], March 26 (Media House): Kane Williamson, the former captain of New Zealand, recently commended Shreyas Iyer, the captain of Punjab Kings, for his impressive technical adjustments that have helped him conquer his longstanding struggle with short-pitched deliveries, transforming him into a formidable batsman. Williamson shared his insights during a discussion on Jio Hotstar.
Punjab Kings celebrated a triumphant start to their IPL 2025 season with a thrilling victory over the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.
Shreyas Iyer played a pivotal role in this match, scoring an explosive 97 runs off just 42 balls, including nine sixes, which contributed significantly to Punjab's narrow 11-run win.
Batting at number three for the first time since IPL 2022, Iyer's aggressive strokeplay shifted the momentum in favor of Punjab, allowing him to remain at the crease until the end and set up Shashank Singh (44*) for a strong finish, leading the team to a formidable total of 243/5.
Williamson described Iyer's performance as exceptional, noting that from the very first ball, it resembled a highlight reel. He skillfully targeted the offside and even hit sixes over cover against some of the world's top seam bowlers. Taking on Rashid Khan, one of the toughest bowlers, was another testament to his skill, Williamson remarked on JioStar.
Iyer showcased a diverse range of shots, particularly against Rashid Khan, reading the spinner expertly and hitting a six over long-on to reach his fifty on the last ball of the 14th over.
He followed this up with back-to-back sixes, effectively using his back foot to pull the ball flat over deep mid-wicket.
Williamson praised Iyer's leadership qualities, emphasizing how stepping in at No. 3 and taking on the opposition's key bowlers was a remarkable feat. He described the innings as truly extraordinary.
A significant aspect of Iyer's improvement is his newfound ability to handle short-length deliveries. Until the end of 2024, he averaged only 18.3 when playing pull and hook shots against fast bowlers, despite maintaining an impressive strike rate of 158.
These statistics revealed his aggressive approach but also highlighted a weakness that bowlers exploited. However, in 2025, Iyer's performance has dramatically changed.
He now boasts an impressive average of 88 when facing these shots, with a striking strike rate of 226, turning what was once a risky tactic into a powerful scoring method.
Williamson noted that Iyer's evolution as a player is particularly noteworthy. By adjusting his stance and positioning deeper in his crease, the PBKS captain has transformed short deliveries from a liability into an asset.
Williamson remarked, "What stands out about Shreyas is his continuous evolution. Teams previously targeted him with short balls, but now he’s adapting excellently—getting deeper in his crease, reducing weight on his front leg, and dominating short-pitched deliveries."
He added, "What’s most impressive is his ability to shift his weight forward again, making it challenging for bowlers who attempt the 'one-two' strategy—going short, then full. He can now access all areas of the ground, making him a formidable batsman."
After lighting up the skies over Ahmedabad with their fireworks, Punjab Kings successfully defended their total, clinching a narrow 11-run victory.