Shreyas Iyer’s journey to overcoming his struggles against the short ball was significantly influenced by his time in domestic cricket. The break allowed him to refine his technique, focusing on drop-in shots for singles rather than aggressive pulls. His improved technique was evident in the India-England ODI series, where he scored 181 runs at an average of 60.33, showcasing both his mental fortitude and technical growth.
Shreyas Iyer, a vital member of India’s middle order, has long been considered a promising talent. However, his journey has been marred by a specific weakness—vulnerability to short-pitched deliveries. This weakness was exposed during international matches, resulting in his temporary exclusion from the Test team. Despite his skill, Iyer’s inconsistency against short balls raised doubts about his ability to thrive at the highest level.
Iyer’s resurgence, however, came through his performances in the 2024-25 domestic season. Representing Mumbai in multiple tournaments, Iyer had the perfect platform to focus on improving his technique against the short ball. The more relaxed environment of local cricket, where development is prioritized over immediate results, allowed him to experiment and refine his game. This transformation was evident in the India-England ODI series, where Iyer faced short-pitched deliveries with newfound confidence.
In the past, his response to bouncers often involved aggressive, sometimes reckless slogs aimed at clearing the boundary. This strategy, while effective at times, also led to his downfall. However, Iyer now approaches short balls with more calculation, focusing on managing the strike rather than going for big shots. This refined technique has been key to his recent success, marking a significant evolution in his batting style and approach to challenging deliveries.
Shreyas Iyer Credits His Time In Domestic Cricket
Shreyas Iyer’s journey from struggling with short-pitched deliveries to becoming a more composed and effective batsman is a remarkable tale of growth, perseverance, and the crucial role of domestic cricket in shaping a player’s career. Known for his potential, Iyer faced a significant hurdle in his international career due to his vulnerability to short balls. This weakness was frequently exposed, resulting in his temporary exclusion from the Test team. However, his time in domestic cricket has been transformative, helping him refine his technique and rebuild his confidence.
During the 2024-25 domestic season, Iyer played for Mumbai across all major tournaments. This period was pivotal in his evolution, allowing him the space to work on his game without the intense pressure of international cricket. Shreyas himself acknowledged this opportunity, saying, “The break I got in between when I was working with the domestic team, I also got some time to work on my technique. Especially the drop-in shots, which got me singles, not the pulls and cuts; that was more satisfying for me.”
His performances in domestic cricket, coupled with personalized coaching, enabled him to develop a more measured approach to dealing with short-pitched deliveries. Unlike his earlier aggressive, sometimes reckless attempts to pull or cut, Iyer learned to manage the strike, ensuring his presence at the crease for longer periods and contributing more substantially to his team.
This transformation was evident during the India vs. England ODI series, where Iyer scored 181 runs at an impressive average of 60.33 and a strike rate of 123.12, including two half-centuries. His newfound composure and technique were key to his success.
Iyer’s story is a testament to the value of domestic cricket, offering players a chance to refine their skills in a less pressured environment. His resilience and adaptability make his journey an inspiration for young cricketers looking to overcome challenges.