India’s newly appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer has said he is not looking to change his personality after taking over the leadership of the national side, stating that he has always thrived on challenges and prefers to remain authentic rather than operate “under someone’s shadow.”

Iyer, 31, was recently named India’s T20I captain, replacing Suryakumar Yadav, who previously led the side to the T20 World Cup title in March. Speaking at an event on Sunday, Iyer said the responsibility of captaining India does not require him to alter his core approach to the game or his personality.

“I don't have to change my personality. I have to be the same person how I was before, and not try to be someone else or be under someone's shadow,” Iyer said, emphasising continuity in his mindset and leadership style. He added that his upbringing in Mumbai’s highly competitive cricket environment had shaped his attitude toward the sport.

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Reflecting on his early cricketing journey, Iyer said he had always embraced competition and challenges, noting that Mumbai’s cricket culture demands high levels of discipline and performance from a young age. He described his mindset as being focused on winning and constantly pushing himself against strong competition.

“My mindset was always about winning, against everyone that I challenged,” he said, adding that the experience of growing up in a competitive sporting ecosystem helped him develop a strong sense of resilience and ambition. He also said that enjoying the process of playing sport was equally important in shaping a player’s long-term growth.

Iyer further said that taking on leadership responsibilities at the international level represents both a challenge and an opportunity. He noted that captaincy brings added responsibility but also allows him to contribute more directly to the team’s direction and performance strategy.

Former India captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly also supported the appointment, saying Iyer had earned the role through consistent performances. India is expected to begin a new T20I phase under his leadership with upcoming matches in Ireland, where he will take charge for his first assignment as full-time captain.

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