Aakash Chopra praised Shreyas Iyer for his impressive performance of 97 runs off 42 balls in the IPL 2025 opener, where Punjab Kings won against Gujarat Titans by 11 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Chopra pointed out Iyer’s knack for handling the middle overs, especially against spin bowlers, saying he’s one of the best at it in India. He really hits clean and crisp, particularly when facing spinners. Most players step out to get momentum, but Shreyas can score without having to do that, making it tough for bowlers to guess what he’ll do next, Chopra mentioned on JioHotstar.
Iyer showed his skills by handling Gujarat’s bowling attack well, especially the spin duo of Rashid Khan and Sai Kishore. After Sai took two quick wickets, Iyer responded by hitting him for boundaries in the following over. He also took on Rashid Khan, hitting two of the five sixes he gave away in his four overs.
Chopra noted a slight change in Iyer’s stance, where he opens it up a bit more. Traditionally, players stand side-on, but Iyer’s back leg is now positioned between point and cover, helping him to reach areas he couldn’t before. Chopra explained that this change allows Iyer to shift his weight better and maintain balance when he plays his shots. If you focus too much on the short ball and lean back, you’re more likely to mistime it. But Iyer stays balanced and quick on his feet, he added.
Iyer finished just three runs short of his first IPL century. Shashank Singh was going strong, but Iyer didn’t look to take the strike. He was one hit away from that ton but didn’t ask for it, setting a good example. It’s crucial in T20 to maximize every ball. It’s not about personal milestones; team runs come first, Chopra posted on X.
During his innings, Iyer was aggressive, with nine sixes and five fours, boasting a strike rate of 230.95. Debutant Priyansh Arya contributed with a quick 47 runs, and Shashank Singh’s late surge of 44 not out off 16 balls helped Punjab Kings achieve their second-highest IPL total ever. According to Chopra, Iyer’s innings showcased his skill, and if he keeps this up, Punjab Kings could be a serious threat this season.
