Preity Zinta Hails Shreyas Iyer as ‘Captain Fantastic’ After Punjab Kings’ Playoff Triumph
In a historic moment for the Punjab Kings, co-owner Preity Zinta couldn’t hold back her admiration for team skipper Shreyas Iyer, dubbing him ‘Captain Fantastic‘ after the franchise clinched a playoff berth for the first time in 11 years. This milestone comes on the back of a commanding seven-wicket victory over the Mumbai Indians at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Tuesday, a result that has reignited hope among the team’s loyal fanbase.
Speaking to broadcasters after the match, Preity Zinta expressed her delight over Iyer’s leadership, stating, ‘We are incredibly lucky to have Shreyas Iyer leading us. He’s not just a fantastic captain but an inspiring leader who leads by example.’ She also credited the dynamic partnership between Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting, adding, ‘Their combination has worked wonders for us. The synergy between coach and captain has truly transformed the team’s fortunes this season.’
The Punjab Kings, previously known as Kings XI Punjab, have endured a long drought of playoff appearances since their last in 2014, when they reached the IPL final under the captaincy of George Bailey. This year’s resurgence, however, has been marked by strategic brilliance and consistent performances, with Iyer at the helm. The 28-year-old batter, who joined the franchise in 2022, has not only contributed with the bat—scoring over 350 runs this season—but has also made astute decisions on the field, earning praise from fans and critics alike.
Looking ahead, Punjab Kings are set to play their first qualifier at the state-of-the-art New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur, a venue that has become their new home ground this season. A victory in this crucial game will secure their spot in the IPL final, a prospect that has Preity Zinta buzzing with excitement. ‘I’m super thrilled to be playing in Mullanpur. Things have changed, but I’m not complaining,’ she beamed, reflecting on the shift from their traditional base in Mohali.
Preity also took a moment to acknowledge the roller-coaster journey of the season and the unwavering support of the Punjab Kings’ fans. ‘Let’s forget the ifs and buts. I’m just taking each day as it comes, and we’re determined to win for our fans. They’ve stood by us through thick and thin for so many years. This is for them,’ she said passionately. Echoing the team’s spirit, she highlighted their motto, ‘Bas jeetna hai‘ (We just want to win), encapsulating the squad’s relentless drive.
Reflecting on the challenges faced this season, the co-owner maintained a grounded perspective. ‘We don’t control everything that happens on the field. Our job is to pick the right team and create the right environment. With a captain like Shreyas setting the tone and a coach like Ricky guiding the strategy, the dynamics of the team have changed for the better,’ she explained. This synergy, she believes, has been the cornerstone of Punjab Kings’ remarkable turnaround in IPL 2023.
As the playoffs loom, the Punjab Kings are riding high on confidence, with their leader Shreyas Iyer embodying the spirit of resilience and ambition. For Preity Zinta and the legion of fans donning the red and silver, the dream of lifting the coveted IPL trophy feels closer than ever. Will ‘Captain Fantastic’ steer his team to ultimate glory? Only time will tell, but for now, the celebrations in Mullanpur are just beginning.