Shreyas Iyer Named “New Chase Master” in IPL 2026 By Aakash Chopra

Shreyas Iyer’s red-hot form powers Punjab Kings to another successful chase, earning high praise and comparisons to Virat Kohli.

Punjab Kings continued their impressive run in IPL 2026 with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium. Skipper Shreyas Iyer once again played a pivotal role, guiding his team through a challenging chase with composure and authority.

Chasing yet another 190-plus total, Punjab showcased their batting depth and confidence. Iyer’s fluent innings of 66 off 35 balls, decorated with five boundaries and four sixes, ensured his side maintained their unbeaten streak this season. His effort was well supported by Prabhsimran Singh, who remained unbeaten on 80.

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This win marked Mumbai Indians’ fourth loss in five matches, highlighting Punjab’s dominance in high-pressure chases.

Aakash Chopra Compares Shreyas Iyer to Kohli

Former India opener Aakash Chopra lauded Iyer’s exceptional performances, placing him alongside one of cricket’s finest chasers.

“Iyer is the new chase master. We talk about Virat Kohli. If we are attaching someone else’s name with him, it’s an achievement in itself, but the truth is that his numbers are like his. He has an average of 65 and a strike rate of 180 in chases in the last two years,” he said.

“He goes after finishing the match. He got out this time, but the match was over. He had gotten out against Chennai as well, but the match was over. He has gotten out one or two times for sure, or else the average would have been 80. Shreyas is not knocking on the door. He is going to break it down. He is batting like that,” he observed.

Teammate Nehal Wadhera also shed light on Iyer’s mindset and leadership qualities. “I was talking to him (Iyer) recently, and he said it is his job to take pressure. That tells a lot about him as a captain. He enjoys pressure,” Wadhera said.

“You can see it in his performance. He tells players to play their own game and not worry about results. He says, “I am here to take the pressure and get the team across the line”, he added.