India middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer breaks silence on his gap in international cricket ahead of the first ODI against England. Iyer who was part of India's ODI World Cup squad missed all the cricketing action since February 2, 2024. The batter's last international outing was against England in a Test match.
After the England series, Iyer had a hard time as he was out of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) central contract list but the batter kept performing in domestic cricket, after his consistent performance for Mumbai, he was included in India's squad for three-match ODI series against England and Champions Trophy 2025.
Ahead of the first ODI against England, BCCI shared a video where Iyer opened up on his gap in international cricket.
“For me, the champion is me. It is all in the mind. I personally feel there is no one to support you other than yourself. You keep elevating yourself and improving yourself over another. And you never cry over spilled milk,” Iyer said.
"I never underestimate myself. I see to it that I don't have realistic thoughts. Because whenever I have realistic thoughts I feel I am doubting my abilities and you are limiting yourself to excel."
"It gives me chills every time when I wear Team India's Jersey. The logo and Indian flag on the Jersey and Helmets, it's a very proud moment for me. I would absolutely play the game with full energy and give my best every time.""The more you achieve, the more you get success. It is important to be down to earth and showing gratifying gesture to everyone," Iyer remarked.
India are scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against England and after that, the Men in Blue will travel to Dubai for the Champions Trophy 2025 which will start on February 19. The showpiece event will take place in a hybrid model where matches featuring India and one of the semifinals will take place in Dubai and the rest of the tournament will take place in Pakistan's Lahore, Rawalpindi and Karachi. The venue for the final also depends on India's performance, if the Rohit Sharma-led side qualifies for the title decider it will take place in Dubai otherwise Pakistan will host the summit clash.