Shreyas Iyer has always been a bit of an enigma in Indian cricket. Ever since he debuted internationally in 2017, he’s demonstrated a very rare combination of flair, calmness, and a keen cricketing mind qualities that typically mark a long-term success story. Still, even with all the promise, Iyer’s career has been marred by unexpected mishaps. Whether it’s untimely injuries or perplexing selection decisions, fate hasn’t quite favored him.
Yes, his susceptibility to short-pitched bowling was a known weakness, but credit where credit is due, Iyer has put in the effort to seal that weak link in his armor. And now, once more, he’s testing his mettle. The 30-year-old has returned in emphatic style and, by the testimony of a senior BCCI source, is being contemplated among the likely future leaders of India’s white-ball teams entering the fray alongside Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in the skipper discussion.
Currently captaining the Sobo Mumbai Falcons in the T20 Mumbai League, Iyer has already taken his side to the semi-finals, which demonstrates his tactical acumen. He recently revealed his passion for captaincy and how much he loves the challenge and the battles of wits that go with it. Sharing the league stage with experienced professionals such as Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, and some of his former cricket friends, Iyer spoke about how the familiar setting boosts his competitiveness and drive. He performs well under pressure and enjoys living for the big moments something you need in a leader.
“It (captaincy) brings in a lot of maturity and responsibility. You are always expected to perform and contribute in the best way possible for the team because whenever there is a hurdle or some kind of adversity you face as a team, they always come to the captain. I think I have got a lot of experience as I have been captaining since I was 22. I have enjoyed the moments and also embraced it. I love the fact to come out and lead, ” Iyer said
“I just try to get into my zone, and I try to do things which are there in front of me. I try to stay focused as much as possible, just stay in the present, embrace the situation, embrace the crowd because sometimes they get very electrifying and pass on the energy to you. So I keep telling myself that I want the crowd to cheer my name, and that brings that kind of motivation,” he said.
“There are familiar faces in the dressing room, I have played with a few of them in club cricket and also in my school and college teams. I am glad to be back and play with my teammates here.”
With his name now among the candidates for India’s leadership group and going back to both T20I and Test formations on the cards, Shreyas Iyer appears set to redefine himself. The challenges still exist, but so does his unyielding determination to overcome them.
