Shreyas Iyer on Transformation: “That Triggered Me” — How Taunts Fueled His Rise in IPL 2026
With Punjab Kings sitting at the top of the IPL 2026 points table, skipper Shreyas Iyer has been in sensational form this season, scoring runs at an average of 70 and a strike rate of 186. The batter has emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament, combining consistency with aggressive intent.
Already established as a reliable batter in white-ball cricket for India, Iyer has taken his T20 game to another level this season, evolving into a dependable middle-order force as well as a match-finishing option. Under his leadership, Punjab Kings have enjoyed a strong run, with multiple victories highlighting their dominance.
“That Triggered Me”: Turning Criticism Into Motivation
Speaking on JioStar’s Believe, Shreyas Iyer opened up about how criticism and taunts played a key role in shaping his mindset and transformation as a cricketer.
“I have people around me who say that in this situation, you can’t do it. It’s impossible. I don’t like hearing that… then in my mind, I decide that I have to prove them wrong,” Iyer said.
He explained that setbacks, including injuries, only strengthened his determination to return stronger and silence doubts about his ability.
“When I had my back injury, some people said I would never be the same again. I asked myself, why can’t I be?” he added.
Overcoming the “Short Ball” Tag
One of the biggest challenges in Iyer’s career was the long-standing criticism of his ability against short-pitched deliveries. The batter admitted that the repeated remarks “triggered” him and became a major source of motivation.
“People said I would never fix my short-ball problem. That triggered me. I wanted to prove them wrong,” he said.
That mindset shift has clearly reflected in his performances this season, where he has confidently taken on pace bowlers and even delivered aggressive strokes against top-quality attacks.
In one standout moment, Iyer famously hit a powerful six against Jasprit Bumrah, one of the world’s premier fast bowlers, signaling his improved approach against short-pitched bowling.
Training, Discipline and Mentorship
Iyer also credited his support system and training routine for his evolution. He regularly works with coach Pravin Amre and has also engaged in discussions with Abhishek Nayar to refine his game.
He revealed that his practice sessions are now more intense and match-specific, often facing hundreds of deliveries to simulate real-game pressure.
“I try to play around 50 overs and face over 300 balls… I don’t follow a fixed pattern,” he explained.
Iyer also highlighted how studying players like AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli helped him build rhythm and consistency in his batting approach.
A Reinvented Batter and Leader
From being labeled inconsistent against specific bowling styles to becoming one of the most in-form batters of IPL 2026, Shreyas Iyer’s journey reflects a clear transformation driven by mindset and discipline.
With Punjab Kings thriving under his captaincy, Iyer’s resurgence has become one of the defining stories of the season—powered not just by talent, but by the determination to turn criticism into fuel for success.
