for Shreyas Iyertravel IPL 2026 it has not been smooth. As his teammates lifted the T20 World Cup trophy, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain was fighting a very different battle – recovering from a spleen injury that sidelined him for months.
It was a phase that tested him both physically and mentally. Known for his aggressive batting and leadership, Iyer suddenly found himself on the sidelines, dealing with recovery procedures instead of match situations. The injury sidelined him from India’s successful World Cup campaign, forcing him to rest completely at a time when he would ideally be at his peak form.
“I lost about seven kilos”: Shreyas Iyer
Speaking about that period, Iyer explained how difficult it was.
“I had lost about seven kilos and had to regain muscle mass” he said.
Losing weight was only part of the struggle. Regaining strength, fitness and confidence required months of disciplined rehabilitation at BCCI’s Center of Excellence. Plumbing Laxman and medical staff. Every day was about small improvements – getting stronger, getting back into rhythm and getting ready to get back into 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 odds, what made the milestone even more emotional was watching India win the T20 World Cup without him. Although the victory brought joy, it also came with a sense of personal disappointment.
“It was great to see the boys win, but there was a sense of disappointment that I couldn’t be a part of it. That feeling drives me now in the IPL.” Iyer admitted.
That mix of pride and regret has now turned into motivation – the fuel he hopes will propel him and his team towards IPL glory.
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Iyer focuses on IPL 2026: Leadership, redemption and title loss
Now fully fit and back in action, Iyer is all set to lead the Punjab Kings to a defining season for both him and the franchise. After coming agonizingly close to winning the IPL 2025 title with their runner-up finish, 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.
Having already rejoined the team, he threw himself into the preparations with full intensity. From long net sessions to regaining match conditioning, the focus is on getting back into the groove as quickly as possible.
“Preparations have been intense. I hit the net, got used to the rhythm again. My body is responding well and I am sure I will play 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 trust on the field.
Iyer also expressed confidence in the overall balance of the squad, highlighting the mix of experience and firepower within the squad.
“We have firepower at the top, depth in the middle and a bowling attack that can defend any total. This is a group that believes we can win this year.” stated.
Punjab Kings will start their IPL 2026 campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) A high-pressure start against one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history in Guwahati on March 30. For Iyer, this is the perfect milestone to mark his comeback.
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