It is not my weakness to play short ball: Shreyas Iyer
In the world of cricket, there are few things more thrilling than a perfectly executed short-pitched delivery. The batsman’s ability to handle such deliveries is often scrutinized and can become a topic of discussion. One such batsman who has faced questions about his proficiency against the short ball is the talented Indian cricketer, Shreyas Iyer.
In the aftermath of an impressive 302-run victory against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Iyer found himself fielding questions about his perceived weakness against short-pitched deliveries. However, the young batter was quick to dismiss these concerns, displaying his confidence in his ability to handle such deliveries.
Shreyas Iyer’s Response
During the post-match press conference, Iyer expressed his frustration with the narrative surrounding his supposed weakness against the short ball. He firmly stated that if a batsman tries to play a shot, there is always a risk of getting out, regardless of the type of delivery. Iyer highlighted his success in pulling away short balls for boundaries and emphasized that the perception of his weakness has been created externally.
According to Iyer, the constant discussion surrounding his ability to play the short ball creates a mental burden that affects his game. However, he remains undeterred, stating that as a player, he understands the inevitability of getting out and continues to work on his skills.
The Statistics
While the debate about Iyer’s proficiency against the short ball rages on, it is essential to delve into the statistics to gain a clearer understanding of his performance. The data reveals an interesting dynamic between Iyer’s ability to score boundaries off short balls and his average against such deliveries.
Iyer’s strike rate against the short ball stands at an impressive 135.44, indicating his capability to score runs when faced with these deliveries. His ability to hit fours off short balls is evident, with approximately 20% of his total boundaries coming from such shots. However, his average of 21.40 against the short length suggests that he has been dismissed frequently while attempting big shots.
The Perspective of a Mumbai Batsman
As a batsman hailing from Mumbai, Iyer believes that he is well-equipped to handle the short ball. Mumbai’s pitches, especially at the Wankhede Stadium, are renowned for their significant bounce compared to other venues in India. Iyer draws upon his experience playing on these pitches to assert his confidence in tackling the short-pitched deliveries.
Acknowledging the risk involved in playing aggressive shots, Iyer mentions that while his approach has not always worked for him, it does not indicate a fundamental weakness against the short ball. He attributes the perception of his weakness to external factors, such as media discussions, which he believes can affect a player’s mindset.
Facing the Challenge Head-On
Teams have recognized Iyer’s potential vulnerability to the short ball and have attempted to exploit it in the World Cup. Out of the 107 balls he has faced from fast bowlers in the tournament, 51 have been short or short of a good length. While he has managed to score 60 runs off these deliveries, he has also been dismissed twice.
Iyer, however, remains resolute in his approach. He acknowledges the media’s role in shaping public opinion but emphasizes his confidence in his own abilities. The support of his teammates and his belief in himself motivates him to keep working hard and improve his game.
Overcoming Setbacks
Iyer’s recent performances have been a topic of discussion, particularly his inability to convert starts into substantial scores. Having started the World Cup with a duck, he missed out on significant opportunities after getting well-set against Bangladesh and New Zealand. However, his innings of 82 against Sri Lanka was a turning point, showcasing his ability to contribute to the team’s success.
Reflecting on the missed opportunities, Iyer admits that they were playing on his mind throughout the tournament. However, he remains focused on the team’s objectives and understands that individual performances should not overshadow the collective effort. He looks forward to rectifying his mistakes and capitalizing on future opportunities.
A Journey of Resilience
Iyer’s participation in the World Cup was not without challenges. He battled through a back injury, working tirelessly to recover and make his presence felt on the field. The grueling recovery process, combined with the demands of a 50-over format, required a disciplined approach to training and recovery.
Despite the obstacles, Iyer remains grateful for the opportunity to represent his country and acknowledges the efforts of the support staff in helping him overcome his injury. He understands the importance of recovery in maintaining peak performance and ensures that he ticks all the boxes necessary for optimal preparation.
Looking Ahead
As India progresses to the semi-finals of the World Cup, the spotlight will continue to shine on Shreyas Iyer. The young batsman’s ability to handle the short ball will be scrutinized by opponents and fans alike. However, Iyer’s confidence and determination remain unwavering.
With the support of his teammates and his belief in his own abilities, Iyer is poised to face any challenges that come his way. As he continues to refine his skills and learn from his experiences, the cricketing world eagerly awaits his future performances.
Conclusion
Shreyas Iyer’s response to the perception of his weakness against the short ball demonstrates his mental fortitude and determination. Despite the statistics suggesting a vulnerability, Iyer remains confident in his ability to handle such deliveries. As he continues to evolve as a cricketer, his journey serves as a reminder of the resilience required to excel at the highest level of the sport.
The ongoing World Cup provides a platform for Iyer to showcase his skills and silence the critics. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on him, awaiting further displays of his talent and determination. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain – Shreyas Iyer’s approach to the short ball will continue to provoke discussion and captivate cricket enthusiasts around the world.
