For Shreyas IyerTravel ipl 2026 Was not comfortable. While his teammates were lifting the T20 World Cup trophy, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain was fighting a very different battle – recovering from a spleen injury that kept him out of the game for months.
It was a phase that tested him both physically and mentally. Iyer, known for his aggressive batting and leadership, suddenly had to deal with recovery routines instead of off-field match situations. The injury not only ruled him out of India’s successful World Cup campaign but also forced him to take complete rest at a time when he ideally would have been at the peak of his form.
“I had lost about seven kilos”: Shreyas Iyer
Talking about that period, Iyer revealed how tough it was.
“I had lost about seven kilos and I had to regain muscle,” He said.
Losing weight was just part of the struggle. Regaining strength, fitness and confidence requires months of disciplined rehabilitation at the BCCI Center of Excellence, under the guidance of VVS Laxman and medical staff. Every day was about small improvements – getting stronger, finding rhythm and preparing to return to competitive cricket.
“It was tough, but I’m grateful to the support staff who helped me get back on my feet.” He added.
Despite the challenges, what made that period even more emotional was seeing India win the T20 World Cup without him. While the victory brought joy, it also brought personal disappointment.
“It was amazing to see the boys win, but there was a sense of disappointment that I couldn’t be a part of it. That feeling is now taking me to the IPL.” Iyer agreed.
That mixture of pride and regret has now turned into motivation – a fuel that he hopes will take him and his team to IPL glory.
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Iyer eyes IPL 2026: Leadership, redemption and securing a title
Now fully fit and back in action, Iyer is set to lead Punjab Kings in what could be a defining season for both him and the franchise. After coming very close to winning the title in IPL 2025, where they finished runners-up, the team is determined to go one step further this year.
For Iyer, this isn’t just another season – it’s an opportunity for redemption.
After rejoining the team, he has devoted himself to the preparations with full dedication. From long net sessions to rebuilding match fitness, the focus has been on getting back into rhythm as quickly as possible.
“The preparation has been intense. I have been batting in the nets, getting back into rhythm. The body is responding well and I am confident of playing the whole season.” He said.
His return is a big boost for Punjab Kings, not only because of his batting ability but also because of the leadership stability he brings. The franchise has shown faith in him and now he has a chance to repay that faith on the field.
Iyer also expressed confidence in the overall balance of the team, highlighting the mix of experience and firepower within the team.
“We have firepower at the top, depth in the middle and a bowling attack that can defend any score. This is a group that believes we can win it this year.” He said.
Against whom will Punjab Kings start their IPL 2026 campaign? Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Guwahati on March 30 – a high-pressure start against one of the most successful teams in the history of the tournament. For Iyer, this is the right opportunity for his comeback.
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