Shreyas Iyer: From Delhi Capitals to Kolkata Riders in IPL

Shreyas Iyer has made a remarkable mark in the IPL, playing key roles in both Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. His transition between teams and his steady rise to leadership have been a testament to his skills and determination. Let’s dive into 20 intriguing Facts About Shreyas Iyer IPL journey.1

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Shreyas Iyer made his domestic debut for Mumbai in November 2014 and quickly impressed across all formats. In the 2015 IPL season, he had a breakout performance, scoring 439 runs in 14 matches.

He became the youngest captain in Delhi Capitals’ history at 23 in 2018, leading the team after Gautam Gambhir stepped down mid-season. Under his leadership, Delhi Capitals reached the IPL playoffs in 2019 for the first time since 2012.1

Under Shreyas Iyer's captaincy, Delhi Daredevils defeated KKR by 55 runs, securing their second win of the tournament. In IPL 2019, Iyer was retained by Delhi Capitals and led the team to the playoffs for the first time in seven years. 2

On his IPL captaincy debut, Shreyas Iyer delivered an unbeaten 93 off 40 balls, including 10 sixes, leading Delhi Daredevils to a total of 219/5. It was his third consecutive IPL fifty that season 3

In the 2020 IPL season, Shreyas led Delhi Capitals to their first-ever final, where they narrowly lost to Mumbai Indians. His composed leadership during that season was widely praised. 4

Shreyas Iyer has a strike rate of 126.16 in IPL cricket, playing the role of a flexible batsman, anchoring innings or accelerating as needed. In IPL 2019, he led Delhi Capitals to nine wins in 14 games. 5

Shreyas scored his maiden IPL century in 2018 against Kolkata Knight Riders, a remarkable 93 from just 40 balls, further showcasing his game-changing abilities. His leadership was instrumental in Delhi Capitals. 6

In the 2020 IPL season, Shreyas Iyer continued as captain of Delhi Capitals and led them to their first-ever IPL final against Mumbai Indians. Iyer scored an unbeaten 65 off 50 balls in the final. 7

Shreyas Iyer missed the first half of IPL 2021 due to a shoulder injury, and when he returned, Delhi Capitals retained Rishabh Pant as captain. Iyer left DC after that season and joined Kolkata Knight Riders in 2022. 8

In 2022, Shreyas Iyer was signed by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹12.25 crores, making him one of the highest buys at the IPL auction. Upon joining KKR, he was immediately named captain. 9

Shreyas Iyer returned as Kolkata Knight Riders' captain for the 2024 IPL season. Despite his strong performance in the 2023 Cricket World Cup, he faced challenges as both player and captain after being dropped from the BCCI Central Contract. 10

Shreyas Iyer led Kolkata Knight Riders exceptionally well, finishing the league stage in the top position. In the final, KKR triumphed over Sunrisers Hyderabad by 8 wickets, securing their third IPL title. 11

Shreyas Iyer made history by becoming the first captain to lead two different teams in IPL finals. He contributed significantly by scoring 351 runs during the season. 12

Shreyas Iyer is the first and only captain to lead Delhi Capitals to an IPL final as of 2024. His leadership marked a significant achievement for the franchise. Under his guidance, the team reached the final for the first time in their history.

Shreyas has shown an impressive ability to adapt to various conditions in the IPL, performing well on spin-friendly pitches in India and fast tracks in the UAE. His ability to switch roles mid-game has made him a versatile asset. 13