Indian batter Shreyas Iyer is looking forward to batting at No. 3 in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier league, beginning March 22. Iyer, who is set to lead Punjab Kings after guiding Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to title victory last year, has expressed his desire to bat at No.3. Recently, he was instrumental in India’s title-winning campaign at the Champions Trophy while batting at No.4.
In the Champions Trophy, where India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, Iyer made a big difference at No.4 with his batting pyrotechnics, finishing the mega event as India’s highest run-getter with 243 runs. In the past, he has batted at No.3 in 19 T20Is, scoring 530 runs.
"We already know that IPL is an integral part of Indian cricket. And If I would want to mark myself at some position in T20, it would be number 3. And that's what I'm focusing on. I wouldn't say that we are planning and thinking about what number I will be batting. This time I'm quite clear about that position. And I'm going to be focusing on that number. As long as the coach approves of me," Shreyas said during the pre-season press conference.
When asked about any extra pressure heading into the IPL 2025, considering Punjab Kings are yet to win the IPL title, Iyer emphasised that there is no pressure but the priority is to win the trophy. Punjab Kings are one of the few teams, who have yet to win the IPL title, having been failing repeatedly over the past seasons.
"The importance is to win the trophy. There is no pressure. It is an opportunity," Iyer said.