Shreyas Iyer emerged as one of India’s standout performers during their triumphant Champions Trophy campaign. Playing a crucial role at the number 4 batting position, he was India’s leading run-scorer in the tournament, consistently delivering in pressure situations.
Although he did not score a century, his ability to navigate difficult phases, particularly in run-chases, proved invaluable. His steady performances provided stability to India’s middle order, ensuring the team remained on course for victory in challenging matches.
Overcoming Setbacks and His Approach to Batting
In an exclusive conversation with Times of India (TOI), Shreyas reflected on his journey over the past year, sharing insights on how he overcame obstacles to shine in the Champions Trophy. Discussing the challenges of batting at number 4 in ODIs, he emphasized his strong self-belief and fearless approach.
He said “To be honest it has been a journey and I have learnt a lot in this phase of my life where I got out of the contract after playing the 2023 ODI World Cup. I reassessed where I went wrong, what I should be doing, how well I need to focus on my fitness. I asked myself all these questions and prepared a routine and started focussing on my training and also the skills I added side by side.”
“Once I got continuous matches in domestic cricket, I figured out how important fitness was for me especially when I raised my concerns at the start of the year. Overall I am extremely happy with myself… the way I came out of this, the way I handled the situation and most importantly I believed in myself.”
When asked whether he preferred a low-key presence like some of his teammates, he responded with sarcasm, stating that he does not come quietly. Instead, he plays with full commitment and confidence, believing he can contribute in any situation.
Shreyas acknowledged that his mindset has been shaped by past failures, which taught him the importance of self-reliance. He noted that difficult times serve as the best teachers, reinforcing the idea that one must take personal responsibility for overcoming adversity. His resilience and determination have helped him develop a strong mental game, allowing him to thrive under pressure.
Leading Punjab Kings in IPL 2025
Following his impressive Champions Trophy campaign, Shreyas is now set for a new challenge in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the IPL 2024 title, he was released by the franchise and will now captain Punjab Kings in the 2025 season.
With his recent form and leadership qualities, he will be aiming to guide Punjab Kings to their first-ever IPL title. Fans and cricket experts will be keen to see whether he can carry his Champions Trophy momentum into the tournament and make a lasting impact as Punjab’s new leader.
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