Shreyas Iyer will be one of the biggest names up for grabs in the IPL 2022 mega auction which is likely to take place in January. Multiple reports have confirmed that Iyer’s association with Delhi Capitals (DC) will end soon as he will be released by the franchise. Iyer is reportedly eyeing the leadership role and can also go on to join one of the two new IPL teams.

While there is no official word on Iyer yet, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has shared his take on the ongoing reports. Pathan, who also represented DC during his long IPL career, has said that there’s is something going on in the DC camp which isn’t out in public.

“I think so (Shreyas Iyer might be looking for another challenge). He was leading the side really well, playing really well but suddenly when he came back after the injury he was not the captain,” Pathan said on Star Sports.

“So that means there is something going on which is not out there in the public. Which means Rishabh Pant will continue as the captain and it’s a great opportunity for Shreyas Iyer. Just go out and maybe lead another franchise.”

Iyer had taken over the team’s charge during IPL 2018 and led DC to the 2nd round in IPL 2019. DC hadn’t made it to the playoffs since 2012. In IPL 2020, Iyer captained DC to their first-ever IPL final.

The right-handed batsman missed the first phase of IPL 2021 due to a shoulder injury. In his absence, the team management appointed Rishabh Pant as the captain and retained him for the 2nd phase.

Under Rishabh, DC made it to the 2nd round but lost both the Qualifiers. As per ESPNcricinfo, DC will retain Rishabh, Prithvi Shaw, Axar Patel and Anrich Nortje. Rishabh looks all but set to lead the franchise.

As many as 4 IPL franchises need a new captain and Iyer seems to be a leading contender to return to the top position.