NEW DELHI: Shreyas Iyer’s heartwarming gesture is winning hearts online. In a viral video, Iyer was seen relaxing at a cafe when a fan girl approached him with a piece of paper and pen, requesting an autograph. Iyer, known for his down-to-earth nature, didn’t disappoint, graciously signing the paper and even posing for a selfie with the fan. The moment highlights his approachable personality off the field.
Iyer, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to IPL glory in 2024, was recently named captain of Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the upcoming IPL season, set to kick off in March.
Iyer was signed by PBKS for a record-breaking Rs 26.75 crore, making him the second-most expensive player in the November auction.
WATCH:
At PBKS, Iyer will reunite with head coach Ricky Ponting, with whom he previously shared a successful stint at Delhi Capitals, leading the team to the 2020 IPL final.
“I am honoured that the team has reposed its faith in me. I am looking forward to working again with coach Ponting. The team looks strong, with a great mix of potential and proven performers. I hope to repay the faith shown by the management to deliver our maiden title,” said Iyer in a statement.
The 2024 season has been remarkable for Iyer. He not only guided KKR to the IPL title but also led Mumbai to their second Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Additionally, he was part of the Mumbai team that secured both the Ranji and Irani Trophy titles.
PBKS will be Iyer’s third IPL franchise after KKR and DC, where he made his debut in 2015. DC had appointed him as captain midway through 2018.
Ponting expressed optimism about PBKS’s future under Iyer’s leadership. The franchise, previously known as Kings XI Punjab, has yet to win an IPL title.
“Shreyas has a great mind for the game. His proven capabilities as captain will enable the team to deliver. I have enjoyed my time with Iyer in the past in IPL, and I look forward to working with him again.
“With his leadership and the talent in the squad, I am excited about the seasons ahead,” said Ponting.
PBKS CEO Satish Menon said Iyer and Ponting’s partnership is promising for the franchise.
“We had identified Shreyas as our captain and were delighted with the auction result. He has already proven himself to master the format, and his vision for the team aligns perfectly with our goals. With him and Ponting joining hands again, we are confident our team has a solid leadership group to guide us to our first title,” said Menon.