'I wasn't completely in the mix...': Shreyas Iyer breaks long silence on KKR exit

Shreyas Iyer has been nothing short of exceptional in the previous two seasons of IPL. After leading the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title in 2024, the 30-year-old joined the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the very next season and led them all the way to the final earlier this year.

During this time, Shreyas' form also improved on the international circuit. He played an important role with the bat in India's ICC Champions Trophy campaign and finished as their top-scorer. He has now become a mainstay for the Men in Blue when it comes to one-day cricket and is highly likely to feature in their upcoming assignments in the format.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli 'highly unlikely' to feature in ODI series against Australia A: Report

However, one decision which left many surprised was the fact that KKR let go of Shreyas despite him captaining the side to the title in IPL 2024. Though the batter was expected to remain with the Kolkata-based franchise in IPL 2025, they shockingly decided to not retain him which saw him enter the auction where PBKS would sign him. Shreyas has now revealed the reason that led to him parting ways with KKR.

"I offer a lot as a captain and player. If I get respect, anything can be accomplished. This is what happened at Punjab. They gave me all the support I needed, whether it was the coaches, management or players. I was coming off a high, having just helped India win the Champions Trophy. So all the stakeholders at Punjab Kings were eager to hear from me and have me contribute meaningfully. This allowed me to be decisive both on and off the field. I was in every meeting with the management and coaches, contributing strategically. This is something I love!" Shreyas told GQ in an interview.

Shreyas 'wasn't in the mix' at KKR

Shreyas further revealed that despite being in the conversation, he wasn't fully in the mix for KKR.

"I was part of the conversation, but wasn't completely in the mix. I've had to work my way up to get to the position I am in now," he added.

ALSO READ: 'They are playing an exciting brand...': Suryakumar Yadav shares his take on India's Asia Cup opener against UAE

Meanwhile, after not getting a place in India's 15-member squad for Asia Cup, Shreyas is likely to make his return to international cricket with the side's next ODI assignment that will be a three-match series against Australia and will begin from October 19.