New Delhi:
In the midst of preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer has voiced his frustration over the constant criticism he faces regarding his ability to handle short-pitched deliveries. Despite his impressive performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Iyer continues to be a target for critics, particularly those who have never faced the intense pressure of high-speed bowling.
Iyer’s irritation stems from the unsolicited advice he receives from individuals who have not experienced the challenge of facing 150 km/h deliveries. “It’s irritating, especially when it comes from people who haven’t faced 150 km per hour delivery, advising you to play in a particular way,” Iyer emphasized during an interview with The Indian Express. He acknowledges that while others have the right to their opinions, he prefers they discuss these matters among themselves rather than directing their advice at him.
Iyer’s 2023 ODI World Cup campaign was nothing short of spectacular, with 530 runs in 11 innings at an average of 66.25, including two centuries. However, this success did not shield him from criticism. His absence from a domestic match for Mumbai led to his omission from the BCCI’s annual contract list, a decision that was widely debated.
In an effort to address the criticisms and enhance his game, Iyer has been exploring unconventional methods. He has been watching baseball videos to improve his power hitting, particularly in T20s. “Yes, I have seen a lot of videos on YouTube on how you basically get the shoulder and hip separation. That has helped me a lot in terms of power hitting,” he explained. This innovative approach reflects his commitment to continuous improvement.
Iyer’s value in the cricketing world was further underscored when he was signed by Punjab Kings for a staggering Rs 26.75 crore in the IPL mega auction, making him the second-most expensive player in the league’s history. Though he was expecting a significant amount, the intense competition and high bidding during the auction caught him off guard. “During the auction, we were in Hyderabad, watching it from our rooms and I was expecting a good amount. But I never thought that I would exceed a point and there would be so much competition between two teams over me,” he recalled.
Despite his recent successes and the record-breaking IPL deal, Iyer remains focused on addressing the criticisms about his batting technique. He rates his 82 against Sri Lanka during the World Cup as one of his standout performances, driven by the determination to prove himself amidst the chatter about his form. “The 82 against Sri Lanka… That kind of talk boosted my instincts from within. I wanted to just give my 110 per cent. And in that game, I decided that I would just back my instincts and go full throttle,” he said, reflecting on the game-changing innings.
As Iyer prepares for the ICC Champions Trophy, he is more determined than ever to silence his critics and prove his worth on the international stage.
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