Shreyas Iyer and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi - (Source: AFP)
The ongoing edition of IPL 2026 is heading towards its business end. With just 3 weeks left in the cash-rich league, the BCCI has already begun planning for India’s next T20I cycle. There were reports that Shreyas Iyer might replace Suryakumar Yadav as India's T20I captain from 2026 to 2028.
Suryakumar Yadav has had a successful stint with the Indian team so far, as the right-handed batter led India to their 3rd T20 World Cup title recently. However, SKY’s form with the bat has been the biggest concern, which is why the board is now thinking of roping in Shreyas Iyer as the next India captain.
With Shreyas Iyer donning the new role, there might be several changes in the team. A few stars might bow out of the scheme of things, and a few surprise selections as well. Since the Men in Blue are all set to begin their new T20I cycle, this article will shed light on three players who might make their India debut under Shreyas Iyer’s leadership.
Players Who Can Make India Debut Under Shreyas Iyer
1. Priyansh Arya
Shreyas Iyer has spent a lot of time with Priyansh Arya in PBKS camp and knows the southpaw's potential. Notably, Iyer joined Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 and since then, Priyansh Arya has been opening the innings for the last year's finalist.
The 24-year-old has been in some fine touch with the bat and meets the modern demands of the game. The southpaw has played 27 matches across 2 seasons and already amassed 763 runs.
More than the runs, Priyansh Arya has a strike-rate of 198.69. Even in IPL 2026, Arya is leading the race for super-striker of the season. Therefore, with Shreyas Iyer's appointment, the PBKS opener can certainly make his India debut soon.
Criterion
Data
Matches
9
Runs
286
Average
31.78
Strike-Rate
242.37
2. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is another name whose India debut is around the corner. The 15-year-old needs no introduction as he has been shattering all records with each match he plays.
The RR opener has already taken on the bests of the bowlers across the world and proved his mettle in IPL 2026. The young prodigy has 404 runs in 10 innings and is most -likely to be picked up for the upcoming Ireland tour.
Shreyas Iyer loves players who plays aggressive yet carefree brand of cricket and Sooryavanshi fits all the bill.
Criterion
Data
Matches
10
Runs
404
Average
40.40
Strike-Rate
237.65
3. Prince Yadav
Among the bowlers, one seamer that has impressed the most in IPL 2026 is LSG's Prince Yadav. The right-arm seamer has clearly expressed his desire to play 2027 ODI World Cup for India and the dream might soon turn into reality.
Prince Yadav has already picked up 16 wickets in 10 innings. He is hitting the right spots and might be picked up for the upcoming Ireland tour.
Shreyas Iyer and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi - (Source: AFP)
