Former Indian batter Ambati Rayudu has put his weight behind Shreyas Iyer after a 2-0 T20I series loss against Ireland. Iyer’s captaincy career didn’t start on a high as the team failed to adjust to the Irish conditions and the home team were better than the World Champions.

The Mumbai batter could not lead from the front as he returned with scores of three and 10 in the two matches against Ireland. Meanwhile, Iyer has led with aplomb in the IPL, leading KKR to glory in IPL 2024. Furthermore, he led Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings to the final in IPL 2020 and 2025 editions, respectively.

“I think things will only get better. England will be a great challenge. And I am sure he will be up for it. Not only with his captaincy, but also his batting. The conditions will be far better than what they have encountered in Ireland. And he is a guy who always keeps things very, very simple. And he doesn’t get too high or too low when it comes to wins or losses,” Rayudu said in a session arranged by Sony Sports Network.

Rayudu is confident that India will be able to turn a corner in the five-match T20I series against England.

“I don’t see him really struggle as such. It will be a very, very natural and a good transition into the England series. And he is someone who can handle it with a lot of grace. And he will go about his things normally. And I am sure his team will turn things around in the England series,” the former India cricketer concluded.

India will next play in the five-match T20I series against England, starting Wednesday.