Shreyas Iyer, once an integral part of India’s batting lineup, recently marked a significant milestone in his cricketing journey by scoring his first First-Class century in three years during a Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Maharashtra. Shreyas Iyer’s recent century in the Ranji Trophy is more than just a personal achievement; it’s a statement of his resolve to bounce back into form.
Struggles in the Recent Past
Despite his early success, Iyer’s career took a downturn in the 2024-25 cricket season. A mix of injuries, including back and groin issues, and inconsistent performances in domestic matches made things difficult for him. His absence from key domestic matches raised eyebrows, and the BCCI eventually dropped him from its central contracts list.
The low point came during the Duleep Trophy, where Iyer only managed 154 runs in six innings, with two half-centuries but also two ducks. His struggles continued into the Irani Cup, where he couldn’t make a significant impact.
The BCCI’s decision to exclude Iyer from the Test squad was a major blow. His patchy form in the longer format and missed domestic games were critical factors in this decision. It was clear that the selectors prioritized players who performed consistently in both domestic and international matches.
The Match Against Maharashtra
In a high-pressure situation, walking in at number five after the dismissal of Mumbai’s captain Ajinkya Rahane, Iyer partnered with young opener Ayush Mhatre. The duo stitched together a remarkable 200-run stand, taking Mumbai past Maharashtra’s first-innings score and giving the team a commanding position.
Iyer’s century came off 131 balls, laced with nine fours and three sixes. This knock was not just about runs; it was about timing, confidence, and the ability to hold his nerve after a long period of struggle. The century also brought an end to a three-year drought, with his last First-Class hundred coming in November 2021 against New Zealand.
Crossing the 6000-run mark is a significant achievement for any cricketer. For Shreyas Iyer, it represents years of hard work and consistency in the domestic circuit. This milestone puts him in an elite league of Indian batters and serves as a reminder of the talent and potential he possesses.
The Road Ahead for Iyer
While this century is a significant milestone, Iyer knows that consistency is key to regaining his place in the Indian team. With several domestic matches ahead, he has the opportunity to continue building on this momentum and push for a spot in India’s middle-order.
India’s middle-order is filled with talent, but it’s also a position that has seen frequent changes. If Iyer continues to perform well in domestic matches, there’s a strong chance he could be considered for a recall, especially with his experience in international cricket.
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