The planning is very precise against KKR: Gonsalves

Shreyas Iyer knows the Eden Gardens surface like the back of his hand. Having led Kolkata Knight Riders to its most recent Indian Premier League title in 2024, the Mumbaikar is well aware of the strengths and vulnerabilities of his former franchise.

So, when he takes the field on Monday, as Punjab Kings captain, the visitor will feel it has an edge in preparation. Assistant bowling coach Trevor Gonsalves admitted that with Shreyas in the ranks, the team has been “precise in planning” against KKR.

“Shreyas has played with most of the domestic players. He has been around for long. (So we are) not thinking too much about any team in particular,” Gonsalves said. “But yes, the planning is very precise against KKR.”

Bought by KKR ahead of the 2022 season, Shreyas missed the following edition due to an injury, before leading from the front in 2024 to guide the side to a third title. The franchise’s decision not to retain him raised eyebrows, but the batter responded in style, steering Punjab Kings to the final last season.

According to Gonsalves, Shreyas’ biggest strength lies in his ability to listen. “He has been very calm. He listens to each player at length — that’s his biggest plus point,” Gonsalves said. “Our head coach Ricky Ponting and Shreyas are on the same page. I haven’t seen a single rift or difference of opinion between the two”.