“Will Go Beyond Dhoni & Rohit” – Irfan Pathan Tips Shreyas Iyer As IPL’s Ultimate Captaincy Force

Star Sports asked Irfan Pathan and Suresh Raina about IPL’s greatest captain. Both praised Shreyas Iyer’s leadership, highlighting his record of guiding three franchises to finals and his current success with Punjab Kings.

The debate over the greatest captain in the history of the Indian Premier League remains unresolved. Star Sports recently sought the opinions of two former India cricketers, Irfan Pathan and Suresh Raina, who both singled out Shreyas Iyer for his remarkable leadership qualities.

In a video shared on social media, Pathan and Raina discussed the captains who have left a lasting mark on the IPL. Irfan Pathan placed Shreyas Iyer alongside MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Gautam Gambhir in his list of four most successful leaders. Dhoni and Rohit have each guided their franchises to five titles, while Gambhir led Kolkata Knight Riders to two championships.

Shreyas Iyer’s Unique Record

Irfan Pathan emphasized that Iyer’s achievements deserve recognition. He is the only captain to have taken three different franchises to the IPL final. Under his leadership, Kolkata Knight Riders secured their third title, while Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings also reached the summit clash. Pathan noted that if Shreyas Iyer adds another trophy to his record, he could surpass all others as the greatest captain in IPL history.

“Shreyas Iyer has done a brilliant job as a captain. Taking three different teams to the finals is not for any captain. But Shreyas did that. If he wins another title, then he will surpass everyone,” Irfan Pathan said.

Raina’s Perspective

Suresh Raina echoed Pathan’s admiration, comparing Shreyas Iyer’s leadership style to that of former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin. Raina highlighted Iyer’s communication skills and his ability to make bold decisions under pressure. He described Shreyas Iyer as a captain who inspires confidence and delivers consistently, both as a batter and as a leader.

“Wherever he (Shreyas Iyer) has gone, he has played fantastically as a batter and done phenomenal work as a captain. Communication is a key point for every captain; it gives me Azhar Bhai vibe. Iyer has the special ability to take bold decisions under crucial situations,” Raina said.

Punjab Kings’ Current Campaign

Shreyas Iyer’s leadership continues to shine in the ongoing IPL 2026 season. Punjab Kings, under his captaincy, are currently unbeaten and sit at the top of the points table. With five wins from six matches and one washed-out fixture, they have accumulated 11 points and boast a net run rate of +1.420.

Shreyas Iyer himself has been in excellent form, scoring 208 runs in six matches at an average of 52.00 and a strike rate of 182.45. His performances have reinforced his reputation as one of the most impactful leaders in the league.