‘Let’s play like lions’: Shreyas Iyer’s first report as India’s new T20I captain

Shreyas Iyer and Gautam Gambhir (Screengrab) Shreyas Iyer is all set to usher in a new era for the Indian T20I team after being handed the captaincy for the upcoming series against Ireland. The appointment marks a significant turnaround for the middle-order batsman, who was left out of India’s T20 World Cup squad but has now returned to the national team with added responsibility after his successful IPL stint in recent seasons.The selectors’ decision reflects growing confidence in Iyer’s leadership credentials, while the role also offers him an opportunity to cement his place in India’s T20I plans after being overlooked in the previous two T20 World Cups.Before India’s first training session under the new management, head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the team and congratulated Iyer on taking charge. Gambhir described the role as a special honor and expressed confidence that the new captain would lead by example on and off the field.“I want to congratulate Shreyas on being named India’s captain. It is a huge honor to lead your country and I am sure you will do a fantastic job not only on the field but also off the field,” Gambhir said in a video released by the BCCI.Addressing the players for the first time as India’s T20I captain, Iyer outlined the culture he wants to instill in the dressing room. He stressed the importance of unity, mutual support and creating an environment where every player feels valued while enjoying the game.“Let’s try to build a strong culture for the future. My first opportunity to captain the Indian team and definitely an honor and a privilege as Gauti bhai mentioned. It’s also a great respect to lead the country. So going forward, I want to create a culture where we all protect each other, support each other through thick and thin, and more importantly, have as much fun as possible when we’re here,” said Iyy.The newly appointed captain also encouraged his teammates to play with confidence and fearlessness. Referring to the team as a family, Iyer urged everyone to support each other, celebrate their collective success and approach every match with the belief that India can come out on top.“It’s a great opportunity and this is a family. Let’s play like lions and approach every game to win it and play to the best of our abilities. To have an atmosphere where we lift each other up and enjoy each other’s success,” he said.The Ireland series will officially mark the start of Iyer’s tenure as India’s T20I captain, with the team hoping to begin a new chapter under his leadership.