Team India captain Rohit Sharma hailed Shreyas Iyer as the unsung hero of their 2025 Champions Trophy triumph. The Men in Blue remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, winning all five matches to claim a record third Champions Trophy title.
While others took the spotlight, Iyer’s consistency went largely unnoticed. Batting in the middle order, he finished as the second-highest run-scorer with 243 runs at an average of over 48. His crucial 40s in the semifinal and final against Australia and New Zealand played a key role in India’s successful run chases.
Speaking about Shreyas Iyer in the post-final press conference, Rohit said (via India Today):
“We knew the conditions would be difficult, but we adapted well. If you look at all the games, the first game was against Bangladesh. I know it was only 230, but we knew that the wicket was a little slow. We needed partnerships. The batsmen made big partnerships. Not to forget the silent hero Shreyas Iyer throughout the tournament was brilliant.”
He further added:
“He was very, very important in that middle phase for us. Stitched the partnerships with all the batters who are batting with him that semi-final against Australia, with him and with Virat at that point was very, very important.”
“That’s why I have less work than I should”- Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma lauded India’s middle-order for repeatedly rescuing the team from tough situations during the 2025 Champions Trophy. Leading by example in the crucial final against New Zealand, the skipper smashed a quick 76 off 83 balls.
His aggressive start allowed the middle-order to stabilize after the team lost three early wickets, ultimately guiding India to chase down 252 in 49 overs.
“Even against Pakistan and New Zealand, the league game that we played. And even today, to be honest When I got out, we had lost three wickets. And at that time, again, we needed a partnership of 50 to 70 runs, which he and Shreyas have done.”
“So, when such performances happen, when you understand the conditions and adapt to the conditions as soon as possible, it feels good. So, that’s why my work is less than it should be,” said Rohit.
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