Middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer made a remarkable statement about his ODI prowess as he notched up a century, his first of the year and third in the format, setting the stage for India’s comprehensive 99-run victory over Australia via the DLS method at Holkar Stadium.
Iyer, who had been sidelined due to back surgery and saw his Asia Cup participation cut short due to back spasms, silenced doubts about his form and fitness with an impressive 105 off 90 balls. His innings, featuring 11 fours and three sixes, earned him the Player of the Match award.
Reflecting on his century, Iyer revealed that he constantly reminds himself that the competition is within him. He acknowledged the challenges posed by recent fitness setbacks and the standout performances of fellow contenders like KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan.
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“I keep telling myself competition is against me. It’s about the mindset and how I maintain it, especially when facing adversity. I was waiting for this opportunity, and fortunately, I scored a century.”
“My mind had its fluctuations at times, but I tried to shield myself from external distractions as much as possible. As they say, ignorance is bliss. I took one step at a time, stayed in the present, and avoided dwelling on the past or future,” explained Iyer during a post-match press conference.
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Iyer adopted an attacking approach on a batting-friendly pitch, reaching his fifty in just 41 balls with a powerful six over long-off against Mitchell Johnson. He completed his third ODI century in 86 balls, celebrating with exuberance as the crowd rose to applaud his remarkable performance.
“It was undeniably a roller coaster ride. I’d like to commend myself for believing in my abilities and mindset during that period. I felt somewhat isolated at times, but thanks to my physios, trainers, and family for their unwavering support. I’m grateful to have them by my side. The people around me played a significant role in lifting my spirits and maintaining a positive outlook. So, I am both thankful and grateful,” he added.
Iyer and Shubman Gill formed a formidable partnership of 200 runs in just 164 balls for the second wicket, with both batsmen achieving centuries and playing pivotal roles in the high-scoring contest on a flat pitch with a small ground.
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“It was one of my finest innings, particularly coming back from an injury. I was eagerly looking forward to returning and contributing to the team. Shubman Gill has been in phenomenal form lately, and the way he converts his starts is simply phenomenal. As a teammate, I’m delighted because moving forward in the World Cup, we’ll need such solid starts, and he’s in a great mental space. His dedication to routines during travel and recovery has been impressive to witness,” remarked Iyer.
With key players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli set to return for the final ODI in Rajkot on September 27, Iyer expressed his readiness to bat at any position as per the team management’s requirements.
“The team management hasn’t specified a particular batting position for me. I’m adaptable and willing to bat wherever the team needs me to. Whether I have to bat lower down the order or higher up, I’m prepared for it. Competition is part and parcel of being in the team. Representing the Indian team comes with challenges, and as a professional, I won’t complain about it. All I can say is that I’ll embrace the opportunities that come my way in the future and leave no stone unturned in my preparation.”
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