Nagpur: Shreyas Iyer Shines with 59 as India Secures Victory Against England
Shreyas Iyer, who played a blistering knock of 59 off 36 balls in the first ODI against England, was initially not even part of India’s playing XI for the match. He got an opportunity to play only because Virat Kohli suffered a knee injury on the eve of the match. After India’s victory, Shreyas revealed that his selection happened unexpectedly.
In the Nagpur ODI, India was struggling at 19 for 2 while chasing 249 runs. Shreyas stepped in and launched an aggressive counterattack, smashing two sixes and nine fours, making India’s chase significantly easier. India won the match, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. This game also marked the ODI debut of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Many believed Jaiswal was included due to Kohli’s absence, but it was actually Shreyas who was close to missing out.
“A funny incident happened the night before the match. I was watching a movie and thought, since I won’t be playing tomorrow, I can stay up late. Just then, I got a call from captain Rohit Sharma, who told me that Virat’s knee was swollen and that I might get a chance. I immediately turned off the movie and went to sleep. I’m happy that I could contribute to the team’s success,” Shreyas shared after the match.
He further added, “I wasn’t expecting to play. Unfortunately, Virat got injured, which gave me an opportunity. However, I was fully prepared. Opportunities can come at any time, so we must always be ready. Something similar happened in the Asia Cup last year. I was injured, and another player took my place and scored a century. This time, I was on the other side.”
Virat Expected to Play in the Second ODI
India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill confirmed that Virat Kohli’s injury is not serious, and he is expected to be available for the second ODI in Cuttack on Sunday.
“Kohli’s injury is not serious. He didn’t feel much discomfort during practice, but on the morning of the match, he experienced swelling in his knee, which ruled him out. However, we are confident that he will play in the second match,” Gill stated.
Credit to Domestic Cricket for Success
Shreyas also credited domestic cricket for helping him regain his rhythm and improve his fitness.
“I played the entire domestic season, and it helped me a lot. I learned how to convert a good start into a big innings and how to maintain a strong mindset. Also, my fitness has improved significantly,” he added.
