India’s batting is shaping up well as they won the match despite the absence of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, which also left them with a problem of plenty.
After slamming a century to set up India’s 99-run win in the second ODI against Australia, comeback man Shreyas Iyer on Sunday opened up about his long-injury lay-off, saying he was in a “lonely space” during that rollercoaster phase in his career. Iyer, who had to undergo a back surgery and was out of action for six months, slammed 105 off 90 balls to take India to a massive 399 for 5 against Australia here, which eventually led the hosts to a series sealing victory.
“It was a rollercoaster ride. I’ve been working so hard the last few months, and I was in a lonely space,” Iyer, who was adjudged the player of the match, said at the post-match presentation.
The 28-year-old returned to the team at the Asia Cup but a back spasm in the middle of the tournament meant he only got to bat only once over the course of two weeks.
“Excited to be back and I am enjoying the atmosphere in the dressing room. I was seeing matches on TV and wanted to be out there.
“I had belief in myself. I knew what I was aiming for and glad I was able to execute my plans today,” he added.
Talking about his strategy against the Aussies, Iyer said: “My plan was to play in the V and not complicate things. I was batting brilliantly in the nets. I’m happy to bat in any position. Whatever the team requires. Virat (Kohli) is one of the greats, there’s no chance of stealing that (number 3) spot from him. I just need to keep scoring wherever (at any position) I bat.”
The stand-in skipper KL Rahul said he was a bit surprised to see the wicket spin in the second half.
“When I saw the wicket in the morning, I didn’t think it would spin so much. Putting 400 on the board gives you confidence,” he said.
India’s batting is shaping up well as they won the match despite the absence of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, which also left them with a problem of plenty.