Mohammad Kaif backs Shreyas Iyer for T20I captaincy amid speculation
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 6, 2026, 5:00 AM
Last updated Jun 6, 2026
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has endorsed Shreyas Iyer as the ideal candidate for India's T20I captaincy, which may be reassigned ahead of upcoming series in Ireland and England. He cites Iyer's successful leadership in the IPL, particularly with Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings, as pivotal in this recommendation. Kaif suggests that the selection panel has moved past Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill in this leadership discussion. He also acknowledges Jasprit Bumrah as a strong contender if fit, but believes Iyer's track record makes him the frontrunner. Speculation continues regarding the direction of the Indian T20I team as they consider new leadership options.
- •Kaif supports Iyer for T20I captaincy ahead of series in Ireland and England.
- •Iyer has led KKR and Punjab Kings to finals in recent IPL seasons.
- •Kaif believes selectors have moved beyond Pandya and Gill for captaincy.
- •Bumrah is seen as a strong option if he is fit and available.
- •Discussion about leadership options is ongoing within the Indian team management.
- 5:00 AMYahoo Sports — 'Shubman Gill will not come back': Ex-India batter makes big T20I captaincy claim
"Former India batter Mohammad Kaif strongly backs Shreyas Iyer for the T20I captaincy, citing his IPL success with Gautam Gambhir and leading franchises to finals. Kaif believes Iyer's leadership and batting prowess make him the top choice, ahead of others like Jasprit Bumrah. He also suggested the team has moved past Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill for the role.
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