Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has candidly shared his thoughts on the criticism surrounding his struggles against short-pitched bowling. Iyer, who temporarily lost his spot in the Test side due to this perceived weakness, has worked hard to regain his form and return to prominence, particularly in the 50-over format.
Frustration Over Criticism
Speaking at the Indian Express Idea Exchange, Iyer expressed his irritation with the ongoing chatter about his short-ball vulnerability. He emphasized that while people are entitled to their opinions, they should refrain from directly advising players.
“It’s irritating, especially when it comes from people who have never faced a 150 kmph delivery but still suggest how I should play,” Iyer remarked. “They can share their opinions amongst themselves, but not directly with players.”
Despite the criticism, selectors have shown faith in Iyer, including him in India’s squad for the Champions Trophy.
Road to Redemption
The 30-year-old batter returned to domestic cricket to rebuild his confidence and form. By scoring heavily across formats, Iyer made a strong case for his inclusion in the national team. His performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup further solidified his place in the squad, where he amassed 530 runs in 11 innings, including two centuries and three fifties.
A World Cup Performance to Remember
When asked about his most memorable knock from the 2023 World Cup, Iyer surprised many by choosing his 82-run innings against Sri Lanka over his century in the semifinal against New Zealand.
“The 82 against Sri Lanka stands out for me because there was a lot of talk about dropping me from the squad and doubts about my contributions to the team,” Iyer shared.
Reflecting on that crucial match, he added, “Even though I had scored a fifty against Pakistan earlier, the chatter about my place in the team created a lot of internal pressure. That innings boosted my confidence. I backed my instincts and went full throttle. I’m proud of how I played that game—it was a turning point for me. I even became my own fan after that knock.”
Expectations for the Champions Trophy
Team India is hopeful that Iyer will replicate his stellar World Cup form in the upcoming Champions Trophy. With his blend of experience and determination, Iyer remains a vital asset for India as they aim for glory in the prestigious tournament.
Shreyas Iyer’s journey is a testament to resilience and perseverance, and he continues to silence critics with his performances on the field.
