Team India’s batsman Shreyas Iyer has affirmed that no one can wrest Virat Kohli‘s position at No.3 in the one-day squad. The 28-year-old’s comment came after he played a pivotal role with a century in the second ODI against Australia, filling in at Kohli’s slot.
During the initial two ODIs against Australia, where regular captain Rohit Sharma and Kohli were rested, India utilized the opportunity to assess their bench strength. Notably, Kohli boasts a remarkable record at No.3 in ODIs, with an average of 60.25 across 213 innings, amassing 10,906 runs and notching 40 centuries.
In his remarks after being named the Player of the Match during the post-match presentation, Iyer expressed his relief at witnessing the results of his hard work and emphasized his commitment to maintaining a straightforward approach.
“It was a rollercoaster ride, feeling fantastic,” he said. “My team-mates, friends and family were there for my support. I was seeing the matches on TV, I wanted to be out there and participate in the matches.”
”Grateful to be believing in myself. Basically when I went in to bat, I didn’t want to complicate things. I wanted to get my eyes set, that’s how I give confidence to myself. I am flexible, ready to bat any position, whatever my team needs me to do. Virat (Kohli) is one of the greats, there’s no chance of stealing that (number 3) spot from him,” Shreyas Iyer added.
Centuries by Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill helped India to register a 99-run win
From the very beginning on Sunday, the 28-year-old appeared to be in great form, achieving his fifty in just 41 deliveries. The right-handed batsman completed his third ODI century in a mere 85 deliveries and contributed to a 200-run partnership with Shubman Gill for the second wicket.
After impressive centuries by Iyer and Gill, Suryakumar Yadav showcased his power-hitting skills, ending unbeaten on 72, propelling India to a total of 399 in 50 overs. Australia faced a daunting task, chasing 317 in 33 overs due to rain, but succumbed under pressure.
David Warner and Sean Abbott managed half-centuries, with the latter reaching a 29-ball fifty, becoming Australia’s top scorer. Nevertheless, the visitors suffered a 99-run defeat, and India secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
The third and final ODI is scheduled for September 27 in Rajkot.
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