"There's No One Like Shreyas Iyer" – Aakash Chopra Lists 7 Qualities, Pushes for India Captaincy for Next 7 Years

Former India cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has stirred the debate around India's future captaincy with a bold endorsement of Shreyas Iyer. Impressed by Iyer's consistent leadership and performance in IPL 2025, Chopra has urged the BCCI to make him Team India's captain across all three formats for the next 6-7 years.

Why Shreyas Iyer Deserves the Role – Aakash Chopra Lists 7 Qualities

According to Chopra, Iyer stands apart from the rest due to these seven standout qualities:

Solid Batting – Reliable and adaptable in all formats.

Strong Understanding of the Game – Tactical awareness and sharp decision-making.

Proven Captaincy Skills – Has led multiple IPL teams to success.

Balanced Behaviour – Calm yet assertive on the field.

Controlled Aggression – Brings energy without losing composure.

Steady Temperament – Handles pressure with maturity.

Positive Thinking – Inspires his team with optimism and confidence.

Captaincy Record That Speaks Volumes

• Delhi Capitals: Took the team to top-2 finishes.

• Kolkata Knight Riders: Led them to the IPL 2024 title.

• Punjab Kings (IPL 2025): Broke an 11-year drought to take them into Qualifier 1.

Iyer is the only captain in IPL history to guide three different franchises to top-2 finishes.

Still Snubbed From the India Test Team

Despite his stellar IPL form, Shreyas Iyer was not picked in the Test squad for the England tour. The selection of Shubman Gill as captain of the young Indian side drew criticism, with many fans and experts pointing out Iyer’s proven leadership and current form.

Chopra’s Call to Action

Chopra believes Iyer's consistent leadership credentials and all-round temperament make him the ideal long-term captain, especially at a time when Indian cricket is transitioning. He said Iyer has what it takes to lead India into the next generation and deserves a role that reflects his capabilities.

“Shreyas Iyer should lead India in all formats for the next 6–7 years. He’s shown time and again that he’s not just a great batter, but also a natural leader,” Chopra emphasized.