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Shreyas Iyer scored his first century after coming back from a long injury layoff. Batting at no.3 in Virat Kohli’s absence, Iyer made up for the ordinary Asia Cup outing and single-digit score in Mohali. He looked comfortable against Australia at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, and scored his third ODI century. He took on the bowlers right from the start and dominated the proceedings before injuries got the better of him. As he was adjudged ‘Player of the match’, the broadcaster asked him where he wants to bat. He also lauded Kohli who will return to the side for the third ODI after getting rested ahead of the World Cup.
“I am flexible, ready to bat any position, whatever my team needs me to do. Virat is one of the greats, there's no chance of stealing that (number 3) spot from him. I just need to keep scoring wherever (at any position) I bat,” the 28-year-old said.
Iyer also shared his journey as the century meant a lot to him after recovering from back injury that made him the entire Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final.
“It was a rollercoaster ride, feeling fantastic. My teammates, friends and family were there for my support. I was seeing the matches on TV, I wanted to be out there and participate in the matches. Grateful to be believing in myself. The pain and niggles kept on coming, but I knew what I was aiming for. Glad that I was able to execute my plans perfectly today. Basically when I went in to bat, I didn't want to complicate things. I wanted to get my eyes set, that's how I give confidence to myself,” he added.
Iyer was dismissed right after he reached his century. He complained of pain in his left forearm and got medical attention as well. After getting a reprieve, Iyer decided to play the big shots instead of knocking the ball around.
Iyer scored 105 runs from 90 balls. His knock featured 11 fours and three sixes. He shared a 200-run partnership for the second wicket with Shubman Gill that laid the foundation for a big total.
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