Marco Jansen Hails Shreyas Iyer’s “Decisive” Leadership, Says PBKS Staying “Smart” Behind Unbeaten Run In IPL 2026

Ahead of the game against the Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings pacer Marco Jansen shared his time at the camp and playing under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer. The left-hander, who has formed a strong pairing with Arshdeep Singh, said that the team has made clear bowling plans which have been executed to near perfection. Punjab has maintained an unbeaten run in IPL 2026 so far, winning 5 matches.

Jansen first burst into the IPL scene in 2025 when he ended as the second-highest wicket-taker for PBKS, taking 16 wickets in 14 matches. Subsequently, strong outings for the Proteas at the recently concluded T20 World Cup helped Jansen arrive in IPL 2026 as a more confident all-format bowler.

Marco Jansen Shares Iyear's 'Decisive' Captaincy

Jansen described Shreyas Iyer's leadership as both "decisive" and "open," highlighting how he balances clear plans with flexibility while encouraging players to express themselves. He said this approach builds trust, especially among bowlers, and creates a focused yet inclusive dressing room.

Explaining Iyer's impact, Jansen noted that the captain does not impose rigid instructions but instead invites views from the group, making players feel involved while still driving clear team goals. He added that Iyer's "very goal-driven" and "very headstrong" approach is evident in meetings and training, with players "sort of just follow his lead" because they believe in his long-term vision.

On a personal level, Jansen said it never feels like a "dictatorship," as Iyer encourages one-on-one conversations, allowing players to share ideas, receive honest feedback, and collaboratively shape strategies.

Jansen's Changing Role For The Side

Jansen said his shift to a first-change role behind Xavier Bartlett and Arshdeep Singh in IPL 2026 hasn't reduced his impact, as he continues to trust his swing while adapting to situations. He explained that bowling in the "third, fourth or even fifth over" requires a different mindset, but still offers chances to break partnerships when batters attack.
He added that new-ball decisions are based on strategy, not ability, noting Bartlett and Arshdeep currently swing it more, while he brings different strengths. Highlighting team flexibility, Jansen pointed to roles played by Yuzi Chahal and Shashank, saying every bowler is trusted in any phase.

On tactics, Jansen said Punjab Kings focus on "restricting scoring" rather than just defending, adjusting plans based on match situations to either control the run rate or take wickets.

Jansen Credits Hard Length Bowling For PBKS Success

Jansen said his hard-length approach is inspired by tall seamers like Josh Hazlewood, recalling how he often wondered, "How does he just hit a length... and he's consistent as well." He explained that both rely on bounce, with height allowing them to use different effective lengths, something he learned after initially trying to copy others instead of trusting his strengths.

Over the past year, Jansen has focused on being comfortable in "my own skin," aiming for consistency and accepting occasional off days. He added that the goal is to avoid performances being "few and far between, so try and stack them as close as possible," using a few variations to support his core method.

On adapting in IPL 2026, Jansen said the approach stays similar across conditions, but adjustments come after reading the pitch, especially if it's "really, really good for batting." He prefers simple plans, then tweaks pace, bounce and length based on conditions while sticking to routines that maintain rhythm.

IPL 2026: Marco Jansen Shares Punjab Kings Death-Over Strategy

Jansen said Punjab Kings do not treat the death overs as purely defensive, but as a phase to keep batters guessing while targeting dot balls and wickets. He explained that plans vary with match situations-either controlling boundaries when under pressure or closing the innings quickly when on top.

He added that with modern batters, the team aims to stay "smart" by varying lines, lengths and pace to create constant uncertainty. Jansen also highlighted strong communication within the bowling group, ensuring every bowler feels prepared and backed.

Overall, he believes Punjab Kings' mix of clear roles, flexibility and Shreyas Iyer's collaborative leadership has given the unbeaten side a balanced approach to sustain form.