New Delhi: Shreyas Iyer played a stunning knock of 59 runs off 36 balls in the first ODI against England at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. This remarkable performance not only played a key role in India’s chase but also helped Iyer set a unique record in ODI cricket, solidifying his position as the solution to India’s No. 4 conundrum.
Shreyas Iyer justified his selection in the playing XI for the first ODI against England by smashing a brilliant fifty. Often criticized for his struggles against short-pitched deliveries, Iyer worked hard on his weaknesses and responded with confidence, taking on the rising balls with ease. He scored 59 runs off 36 balls, bringing India close to victory. Coming in at a time when India had lost both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma early in their chase of 249, Iyer showed no signs of pressure, playing his signature shots and cruising to a fiery fifty.
Iyer had been in competition with Rishabh Pant for the No. 4 spot, but his stellar knock has likely secured his position as India’s permanent No. 4. Additionally, Iyer set a significant record during his masterful performance in the first ODI, further solidifying his claim for the role.
Shreyas Iyer Achieves Massive Milestone
Iyer became the first player in the world to score over 1000 runs at No. 4 with an average exceeding 50 and a strike rate above 100. This remarkable achievement places him in an exclusive group of players who have reached such a milestone at specific batting positions. Quinton de Kock accomplished this feat while batting at No. 1, while Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill achieved it at No. 2. Iyer is the only player to do so at No. 4, with AB de Villiers replicating the feat at No. 5.
Along with Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also played vital knocks to guide India to a 4-wicket victory. Gill scored a solid 87, while Axar Patel contributed with a crucial 52, helping India take a 1-0 lead in the series. Earlier, Harshit Rana and Ravindra Jadeja were instrumental with the ball, picking up three wickets each as India bowled out England for 248 in 47.4 overs.
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