In the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2023 match between India and Pakistan (IND vs PAK), Shreyas Iyer found himself at the centre of attention. After a period of injury and recovery, Iyer was looked upon as the lynchpin in the middle overs, particularly with the top order having crumbled. Despite some early fireworks, Iyer was dismissed playing a pull shot, leaving his role in the Indian cricket team in question. The upcoming India vs Nepal (IND vs NEP) encounter presents an important proving ground for Iyer.
Ishan Kishan's unforgettable knock
Ishan Kishan delivered a stunning performance against Pakistan, scoring 82 off 81 balls, a knock decorated with nine fours and two sixes. This remarkable innings catapulted Kishan ahead of cricket legends like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in the record books, establishing him as the number one wicket-keeper batter with the highest score against Pakistan in the Asia Cup.
Sunil Gavaskar's Candid Statement
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar didn't mince words when discussing the team's options, especially considering KL Rahul's imminent return. "I will wait and see what Iyer does in the match against Nepal," Gavaskar stated. "But if he fails to score, it will be difficult for him to maintain his spot, especially when you have Rahul and Ishan to bat at numbers 4 and 5."
KL Rahul's Return and Team Balance
With KL Rahul recovering and slated to rejoin Team India soon, the team dynamics are set for a shakeup. According to Gavaskar, the return of KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan's stellar form leaves little room for Iyer, particularly given Kishan's left-handed prowess which adds to the team's overall balance.
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