“Shreyas Iyer not far from making a strong return to the Indian T20 team”: Irfan Pathan

By: Prachi Kapruwan

On: Saturday, April 18, 2026 12:42 PM

Shreyas Iyer T20I Debut
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Shreyas Iyer T20I Debut: Punjab Kings registered a convincing seven-wicket win over Mumbai Indians, thus handing them their fourth consecutive loss in TATA IPL 2026. Speaking on Star Sports’ ‘Amul Cricket Live’, JioStar experts Irfan Pathan and Mitchell McClenaghan spoke about Punjab Kings’ clinical display, the utilisation of Jasprit Bumrah, and also explained PBKS Captain Shreyas Iyer’s prospects for India’s T20 side.

Shreyas Iyer T20I Debut

Shreyas Iyer T20I Debut
Shreyas Iyer T20I Debut (Source : Social Media)
Speaking on Star Sports’ ‘Amul Cricket Live’, JioStar expert Irfan Pathan elaborated on Punjab Kings’ performance

“Punjab Kings looked in complete control from the outset. Their planning was clear, and Arshdeep Singh set the tone brilliantly with the new ball. During the chase, their Captain led from the front and remained in control throughout. One player who really stood out for me was Prabhsimran Singh. Taking on a dual role as wicketkeeper and opener, he has shown tremendous maturity. Last season, he wasn’t in this role, but this year, he has stepped up exceptionally well. The composure he displayed makes Punjab’s performance even more impressive.”

On Shreyas Iyer’s chances of returning to India’s T20 side

Irfan Pathan
Irfan Pathan (Source : Social Media)
“Even if this innings hadn’t come, I still believe Shreyas Iyer would be in contention. I’ve said this for a long time because he has the skill set required for the middle overs. He plays spin extremely well and has the technique to handle pressure situations. While he has improved against pace, his core strength remains his ability to dominate spin by standing tall and delivering. He has all the attributes of a leader as well. With the way he is playing, he looks in complete control and not far away from making a strong return.”

Speaking on Star Sports’ ‘Amul Cricket Live’, JioStar expert Mitchell McClenaghan spoke about Jasprit Bumrah’s utilisation

Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah (Source : Social Media)

“Bumrah is often brought into the attack after the first over, which puts him in a position of damage control rather than allowing him to dictate terms. Ideally, you want him to start the innings, bowl the first over, and put pressure on the opposition from the outset. Mumbai Indians need to reassess how they are using him, because getting him into the game earlier could make a significant difference.”

Also Read : Vipraj Nagam Breaks Silence on Strategy for Virat Kohli & Co. For the Upcoming Game in TATA IPL 2026 Rivalry Week