Despite the personal and collective disappointment, Iyer refused to blame any individual players or moments for the outcome.

"Don't want to pinpoint any particular incident. Overall the boys were brilliant with their efforts. We just lost one game on the way to the final. Just a one-off game where you can't pinpoint on anyone - it's basically backstabbing and I don't enjoy that," he said.

"We have learnt a lot. Pretty common to feel dejected after losing the final. It must hurt them. When they come back next year they would be having that motivation and confidence. "

He added,"They should be proud of their efforts.

They came in here, not too much experience and playing in front of 20,000 people - it's not easy. I've been there, done that. When the nerves get into you, you tend to make mistakes but it teaches you a lot and you come back stronger,".

Shreyas Iyer's captaincy accolades

The twin heartbreaks stand in sharp contrast to the highs Iyer enjoyed over the past two years. The right-handed batter led Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL title in 2024, and also captained Mumbai to a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy win. His domestic accolades include being part of a Ranji Trophy-winning squad and playing a pivotal role in India's Irani Cup triumph.

Earlier this year, he was also part of the Indian team that won the Champions Trophy, adding an international honour to his impressive résumé.