Robin Uthappa Backs Shreyas Iyer For India Captaincy Role In The Future

Shreyas Iyer's leadership journey with the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024 has been nothing short of captivating and inspiring, especially considering the challenges he faced earlier this year. Despite being excluded from Team India's contract by the BCCI and subsequently omitted from the T20 World Cup 2024 squad, Iyer's leadership prowess shone brightly throughout the season. His tenure with the franchise began on a rocky note in 2022, with KKR finishing in seventh place, prompting doubts about his leadership abilities. Additionally, a back injury sidelined him for IPL 2023. However, in IPL 2024, Iyer showcased a composed demeanor and sharp cricketing acumen, adeptly managing his team and making strategic decisions during crucial moments.

Former Indian cricketer and ex-KKR star, Robin Uthappa, hailed Iyer's leadership, suggesting that he could be the future captain of Team India. Uthappa even placed Iyer ahead of Shubman Gill, the current skipper of Gujarat Titans and a potential successor to Rohit Sharma.

Uthappa highlighted Iyer's resilience and strong character, shaped by the mentorship of stalwarts like Gautam Gambhir, Chandrakant Pandit, and Abhishek Nayar. He emphasized Iyer's capacity not only to lead effectively but also to inspire his team with his indomitable spirit and determination. As Iyer continues to lead KKR with distinction, his journey serves as a testament to his leadership potential and unwavering commitment to excellence.

"I'm going to say it here. He's  going to be the future India captain. I think he's next in line, maybe even ahead of Shubman Gill. He's got the character and wherewithal to handle a team. I think there’s a lot he has learnt this season. You've got to understand that he was working with Gautam Gambhir, Chandrkant Pandit, and Abhishek Nayar – three very strong personalities," stated Uthappa, while speaking on JioCinema.

The former Indian cricketer emphasized that navigating through influential mentors like Gautam Gambhir, Chandrakant Pandit, and Abhishek Nayar required considerable fortitude and independent decision-making from Shreyas Iyer. Yet, Iyer's ability to assert himself with precision and confidence throughout the season underscored his robust character. According to Uthappa, this quality positions Iyer as a frontrunner for future captaincy of Team India, as it showcases his capability to lead with authority and composure even in challenging circumstances.

"You have to navigate your way through these strong personalities throughout the season while having your way, and learning on the run. That’s not easy to navigate through an entire IPL season while performing, giving your best and making the right calls. He has done that with utter dominance. That tells you a lot about his character and what he believes he is capable of. I think because of that, he sets himself up in the right space to be in the conversation for the next Indian captain," added Uthappa.