‘Terrible shot’: Shreyas Iyer’s ‘wrong message to PBKS dressing room’ exposed by ex-India cricketer
Former Indian Cricketer, Sanjay Manjrekar, Criticizes Shreyas Iyer’s Dismissal in IPL 2025 Match
Former Indian cricketer, Sanjay Manjrekar, recently criticized Shreyas Iyer for his dismissal during the IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). Manjrekar expressed his disappointment at Iyer’s careless shot, especially highlighting the impact it had as the captain and a key player of the team.
Manjrekar’s Comments on Iyer’s Dismissal
Chasing a target of 206 runs, Punjab Kings suffered an early setback when Priyansh Arya was dismissed on the first ball. Shreyas Iyer managed to hit two boundaries before being dismissed by Jofra Archer. The star batter attempted a big shot but misjudged it completely, resulting in his dismissal for just 10 runs, leaving Punjab Kings at 11/2.
Manjrekar, in an interview with JioHotstar, expressed his dismay at Iyer’s dismissal, labeling the shot as “terrible.” He emphasized that such a dismissal from an in-form captain sends a negative message to the team, impacting their morale and confidence during the match.
“It was actually very hard for me to see that kind of dismissal of Shreyas Iyer. That shot was terrible—and it’s not just about how you get out. It’s just that a dismissal like that, especially of the captain in form, sends the wrong message in the dressing room,” Manjrekar stated.
Manjrekar’s Views on Rajasthan Royals
Aside from critiquing Iyer’s dismissal, Manjrekar also praised the performance of the Rajasthan Royals team. He highlighted Yashasvi Jaiswal’s form as a positive sign for the Royals and commended the team’s bowling combination, with players like Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, and Maheesh Theekshana playing pivotal roles.
“The Rajasthan Royals team—with Yashasvi Jaiswal getting runs—is starting to look good. They’ve got a very interesting bowling combination as well. In Archer, one of the best new-ball bowlers; in Sandeep Sharma, one of the best death-over specialists; and players like Maheesh Theekshana in the middle overs are beginning to shine,” Manjrekar remarked.
Punjab Kings’ Next Challenge Against Chennai Super Kings
Despite a challenging start in the match against Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings will look to bounce back when they face Chennai Super Kings in their next fixture. Rajasthan Royals posted a competitive total of 205/4 in 20 overs, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag playing crucial innings to achieve the milestone.
Although Punjab Kings faced early setbacks with Jofra Archer and Sandeep Sharma dismantling the top order, Nehal Wadhera and Glenn Maxwell showed resilience with an 88-run partnership. However, the lower order collapse under pressure proved to be detrimental to Punjab’s chances of victory.
The upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings will be a test of Punjab Kings’ ability to regroup and deliver a strong performance. Fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the clash between these two powerhouse teams on April 8 at the Mullanpur venue.
Analysis of Shreyas Iyer’s Performance
Shreyas Iyer, known for his elegant stroke play and leadership skills, has been a vital asset for Punjab Kings in the IPL. However, his dismissal in the match against Rajasthan Royals raised questions about his shot selection and decision-making under pressure. While Iyer’s aggressive intent is usually an asset for the team, it backfired in this instance, leading to his early exit from the crease.
It is crucial for a captain to lead by example, especially in high-pressure situations like chasing a formidable target. Iyer’s dismissal not only impacted the team’s chances in the match but also questioned his ability to anchor the innings effectively. As a senior player and captain, the onus is on Iyer to showcase resilience and adaptability in adverse circumstances to guide his team to victory.
Impact of Team Morale on Performance
Manjrekar’s comments shed light on the psychological aspect of cricket, where individual performances can significantly influence team morale. A captain’s dismissal, especially in a crucial situation, can have a ripple effect on the rest of the team members, affecting their confidence and decision-making on the field.
It is imperative for players like Iyer to not only focus on their individual contributions but also understand the broader impact of their actions on the team dynamics. Building a resilient team culture, where players support each other through highs and lows, is essential for sustained success in a tournament as competitive as the IPL.
Rajasthan Royals’ Rising Momentum
While Punjab Kings faced a setback in their match against Rajasthan Royals, it is essential to acknowledge the commendable performance of the opposition team. Rajasthan Royals displayed a balanced combination of youth and experience, with players like Yashasvi Jaiswal showcasing their talent on the big stage.
The bowling unit of Rajasthan Royals, spearheaded by the likes of Jofra Archer and Sandeep Sharma, posed a significant challenge for Punjab Kings’ batsmen. The team’s ability to work in tandem and apply pressure on the opposition batting lineup was instrumental in securing a competitive total and ultimately, a victory in the match.
Looking Ahead: Punjab Kings vs. Chennai Super Kings
As Punjab Kings prepare to face Chennai Super Kings in their upcoming fixture, the focus will be on regrouping and rectifying their flaws from the previous match. The clash between these two powerhouse teams promises to be an exciting encounter, with both sides eager to assert their dominance on the field.
For Punjab Kings, the key will be to address their batting vulnerabilities and ensure a more balanced performance across all departments. Facing a formidable opponent like Chennai Super Kings will require meticulous planning, strategic execution, and a resilient mindset to overcome the challenges posed by a seasoned team.
Cricket enthusiasts and fans can expect a thrilling contest between Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings, as both teams look to make a statement in the IPL 2025 season. The match on April 8 at the Mullanpur venue will undoubtedly be a must-watch for cricket aficionados worldwide.


