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India's dependable no.4 batter Shreyas Iyer has opened up on perceptions that were built exaggerating his weakness against the short ball. Iyer did get out to a short ball in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 but was India's highest run-scorer in the tournament. Also, he got out to the short ball after scoring a half-century against New Zealand in the group stage match.
"Maybe, the perception was created or maybe I was typecast. But I always knew my strengths, my abilities and (there was also) the belief (that) I had in myself," Iyer told PTI ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Iyer has emerged as the answer to India's middle order woes. He focused on the need to stay positive and evolve his game.
"An athlete needs to constantly evolve as the sport keeps changing its dynamics. I am glad I kept a positive frame of mind, and trusted my process," he said.
Iyer had a rollercoaster of last few years. After scoring more than 500 runs in ODI World Cup 2023, he sustained a back injury in Hyderabad Test against England. He lost his central contract with the Board of Control for India (BCCI) as he was punished for missing a domestic game. Then, he led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. He did not get picked in T20I or Test side but continued to prove his mettle in domestic cricket. However, Iyer took learnings from it and continued to work hard.
"I kept my process simple. Tried not to over-think the situation and to continue doing my work honestly. I always had the belief that my performance and my sincerity will bring back the opportunity," the Mumbai batter said.
Iyer thanks coach and trainer
Iyer credited coach Pravin Amre and trainer Sagar for his power-hitting and improved fitness.
"It allowed me to learn a lot, reassess the situation and prepare a routine to add additional skills in my armoury.
"Looking back, I am happy with the outcome, the way I managed the situation and importantly, belief in my abilities. Lots and lots of hard work went behind it.
"From my coach Pravin Amre sir to my trainer Sagar, everyone worked around my needs. The two of them really helped me create power and the force which you see in my batting now," the 30-year-old recalled.
Iyer, Ponting have their work cut out
Iyer has been reunited with former Australia captain Ricky Ponting at Punjab Kings (PBKS). The franchise hopes Iyer and Ponting will help them end their streak of not qualifying for playoffs and lead them to maiden IPL title.
