India’s ICC Champions Trophy campaign is set to begin on February 20 with a clash against Bangladesh, followed by a high-octane match against Pakistan on February 23 and a game against New Zealand on March 2. The tournament, played under a hybrid model, will see India hosting its matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan. While the official squad is yet to be announced, fans are eagerly awaiting Shreyas Iyer’s performances, as he enters the tournament in scintillating form after an extraordinary domestic season.
Iyer’s Flexibility in the Batting Order
In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Iyer emphasized his readiness to adapt to any role in the batting lineup, particularly as a middle-order batter. Reflecting on his successful partnership with KL Rahul during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, he said, “I’m flexible and can bat anywhere. KL and I played crucial roles in the middle order during the World Cup. Although we fell short in the final, it would be a proud moment for me to represent the country in the Champions Trophy.”
Iyer’s World Cup 2023 campaign was a standout performance for a middle-order batter. He scored 530 runs in 11 matches at an average of 66.25 and a strike rate of 113.24, including two centuries and three fifties, with a best score of 128*. Notably, he became the first middle-order batter to surpass 500 runs in a single World Cup, surpassing Scott Styris’ 2007 record of 499 runs.
Record-Breaking Knock in the Semifinals
One of Iyer’s defining moments came in the semifinal against New Zealand, where he smashed 105 runs off just 70 balls, hitting four boundaries and eight sixes at a strike rate of 150. His innings set the record for the fastest century in a World Cup knockout match, surpassing Adam Gilchrist’s 72-ball hundred in the 2007 final.
Impressive ODI Career and Domestic Success
Iyer’s ODI statistics further showcase his consistency. In 62 matches, he has scored 2,421 runs at an average of 47.47, with five centuries and 18 fifties. As a number-four batter, he has excelled with 1,397 runs at an average of 51.74 and a strike rate of 101.74.
In domestic cricket, Iyer had a dream run in 2024, winning four major trophies, including the IPL and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) as captain, as well as the Ranji Trophy and Irani Cup. He also became the second-most expensive IPL player in history, signing a ₹26.75 crore deal with Punjab Kings (PBKS). Iyer will lead PBKS in the upcoming IPL season, working alongside coach Ricky Ponting.
On Batting Style and Leadership
Discussing his preferred role in the IPL, Iyer mentioned his comfort in batting at number three as an anchor. “When I played for Delhi Capitals, we decided this was the position that best suited my style. I aim to settle in and finish games strongly for my team,” he shared. Despite his adaptability, Iyer remains focused on contributing wherever the team needs him.
“I’m a flexible player. I’ve batted at various positions, including for KKR, and my performances benefited the team. People might have perceptions about where I should bat, but I focus on fulfilling the team’s demands,” he explained.
A Remarkable 2024
Although Iyer faced criticism for his alleged lack of commitment to red-ball cricket, which led to his removal from the BCCI central contracts, he silenced his critics with a phenomenal 2024 season. Across formats, he amassed 1,841 runs in 44 matches at an average of 43.83, with four centuries and seven fifties, including a career-best score of 233.
As India gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy, Iyer’s recent form and adaptability make him a pivotal player. Fans and selectors alike will be counting on his contributions to lead India to glory.
