After a despair we witnessed on November 19, 2023, the Indian team healed 1.4. billion hearts by clinching the major silverware at the recent T20 World Cup 2024. Now begs a question – what’s next? BCCI secretary Jay Shah, however, gave a sneak peak and reiterated that India are to dominate world cricket, with one eye already on next task, i.e., the Champions Trophy next year.
With Team India’s long-term eye on the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Men in Blue will be meticulously crafting its ODI squad. One name that deserves a closer look is Shreyas Iyer, the talented batter who shone brightly as an unsung hero in the 2023 World Cup. Despite his contributions, a back injury and some selection decisions put Iyer’s international future in question.
However, with Gautam Gambhir, taking over as head coach, a potential revival seems on the cards. Let’s delve into why Shreyas Iyer could be a vital piece in India’s ODI puzzle.
Shreyas Iyer & his 50-over blitz
Iyer’s numbers speak for themselves. In the 2023 World Cup, he was India’s third-highest run-scorer, amassing 530 runs at a great average of 66.25. What set him apart was his staggering strike rate of 113.24, often dictating terms in last 10 overs. This consistency extends beyond the World Cup. In 2022 and 2023, he was the third-highest scorer for India in ODIs, with him hammering 1570 runs at an average of almost 55. This showcased his ability to perform consistently.
This consistency addressed a major concern for India’s middle-order, which had been a weak link in previous World Cups. Iyer’s calm temperament and ability to rotate the strike while finding boundaries make him a perfect fit for the number four or five position.
Another chance under Gambhir’s tutelage!
The BCCI’s decision to exclude Iyer from the central contracts was met with criticism. Even Iyer himself quoted that, despite him complaining about his back issues, no one from BCCI listened to him. However, with Gambhir coming in, who mentored Iyer at the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at IPL 2024 win, things might change for Iyer.
Gambhir, is known to appreciate technical prowess and temperament of the Mumbai-born lad. Iyer’s ability to build an innings aligns with Gambhir’s vision for a balanced batting line-up. This renewed leadership could be the turning point Iyer needs to solidify his place in the ODI squad as well.
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Building towards 2025 Champions Trophy
The 2025 Champions Trophy, a mini World Cup, presents a golden opportunity for India to reclaim the title. The Men in Blue last won the CT way back in 2013 under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. With a long-term vision in mind, Iyer’s remarkable returns and adaptability across conditions make him an undroppable asset. While we are still way too early as far as the Champions Trophy is concerned, Shreyas Iyer’s talent and World Cup heroics deserve recognition. With Gambhir’s leadership and a focus on the 2025 Champions Trophy, Iyer has the potential to become the enforcer that India needs to dominate the 50-over format.
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