Punjab are undefeated so far and sit comfortably on top with 13 points from seven matches, with Iyer playing a vital role in the team’s success. His leadership skills have been sharp, while his batting has been fearless, aggressive and highly effective in pressure situations.

Shreyas Iyer’s impressive IPL 2026 campaign

Iyer’s performances this season have answered questions from many critics, especially those who often doubted his ability against short-pitched bowling. Rather than looking vulnerable, the right-handed batsman has looked in complete control, handling both pace and spin with aplomb.

In six innings so far, he has scored 279 runs at an impressive average of 69.75 and a blazing strike rate of 186.00. His score already includes four half-centuries, and most importantly, many of these runs have come in match-determining situations. He has brilliantly guided Punjab in challenging run chases, including successfully chasing targets of over 200. His ability to absorb pressure and then accelerate has made him one of the most dangerous middle-order batsmen this season.

More than the numbers, it is the confidence with which he bats, which stands out. Be it rebuilding the innings or finishing the match, Iyer has shown to be a batsman who is completely in control of his game.

Cheteshwar Pujara reveals RR’s plan to dismiss Iyer

Speaking on Star Sports, Pujara stressed that Rajasthan Royals should target Iyer early and not give him time to settle down. According to him, the first 10 to 15 balls faced by Iyer are the most important phase for the opposition. If RR are unable to take his wicket in that time, the match could quickly slip away from them.

Pujara suggested that the RR captain Riyan Parag should immediately turn to their fast bowlers, especially the fast bowlers Jofra Archer and leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi. He explained that Archer’s pace and bounce could test Iyer before he becomes comfortable, while Bishnoi’s wicket-taking ability could create pressure in the middle overs, even though Iyer is considered strong against spin. According to Pujara, the idea is simple—attack him until he finds the rhythm.

“Maybe use Jofra Archer early if you can; if they have a few overs left, try to use Ravi Bishnoi too whenever possible. And we’ve seen that Shreyas is a good player of spin, but you should still use your wicket-taking options, and both Jofra Archer and Ravi Bishnoi are the ones Riyan Parag should look to,” Pujara explained.

Why does Pujara believe Iyer becomes a blocker?

Pujara praised the PBKS captain, saying that Iyer is currently batting in his best form and leading from the front. He noted that Iyer is setting the standard for Punjab’s batting unit and inspiring confidence in the dressing room. His aggressive mindset and smart shot selection have made him one of the most reliable batsmen of the tournament. Once he gets past the initial phase, Pujara believes the bowlers will run out of answers as Iyer adapts quickly and dominates the game.

“He (Shreyas Iyer) is in his best form, the way he is batting. He is leading from the front. I think Shreyas Iyer is setting an example for the rest of the batsmen. So for RR, I think it is important that they try to take his wicket quickly when he comes to bat, and RR have to make sure that they create that opportunity in the first 10-15 balls they face Shreyas because once “When he gets set, he’s almost a blocker.” Pujara added.