For a long time in his career, Shreyas Iyer was often criticised for his vulnerability against short-pitched deliveries. Many believed it could limit his growth at the highest level, both in international cricket and the IPL. However, the batter has now turned that weakness into a strength, emerging as one of the most confident players against the short ball.
Turning criticism into motivation
Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Believe’ with Irfan Pathan, Iyer revealed that constant criticism surrounding his short-ball struggles acted as a major motivator.
He admitted that earlier, his instinct was to play it safe—either by taking a single or keeping the ball down. But a conscious shift in mindset has changed his approach. Now, whenever he spots a short delivery in his hitting zone, he looks to attack it aggressively, often aiming for boundaries or sixes.
This transformation was clearly visible during a recent IPL match at the Wankhede Stadium, where he confidently pulled Jasprit Bumrah for a towering six, underlining his improved control and intent.
Intensive practice and preparation
Iyer credited his improvement to rigorous and structured practice sessions. Working closely with his long-time coach Pravin Amre, he has focused on spending extended time at the crease during training.
He revealed that he now aims to simulate match conditions by batting for close to 50 overs in practice and facing over 300 deliveries. This helps him better understand his game and refine his responses to different types of bowling.
In addition, he regularly exchanges ideas with coaches like Abhishek Nayar, ensuring continuous learning and adaptation.
Learning from the best
Iyer also spoke about developing rhythm at the crease—something he has observed in some of the game’s greats. He pointed to players like AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, who are known for their fluid movements and timing.
By getting into position quickly before the bowler releases the ball, Iyer has been able to create a smoother flow in his batting, which has significantly improved his shot execution.
Emergence as a dependable finisher
Beyond fixing his short-ball issue, Iyer has also evolved into one of the most reliable finishers in the IPL. Leading Punjab Kings, he has delivered consistently in run chases.
In his last seven innings while chasing, Iyer has scored five half-centuries, highlighting his growing ability to anchor innings and close out games under pressure.
He said he enjoys the challenge of finishing matches and focuses on staying till the end. According to him, the longer he remains unbeaten, the higher the team’s chances of winning.
Building on strong starts
Iyer also acknowledged the role of his teammates, particularly the openers like Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, who have been providing solid starts.
He emphasised that these early contributions create a strong platform, allowing him to play with confidence and take control of the chase. Even in situations where the start is not ideal, he adapts his approach to build a winning scenario.
Conclusion
Shreyas Iyer’s journey from being questioned over a technical flaw to becoming a confident and versatile batter reflects his determination and work ethic. By addressing his weaknesses and evolving his mindset, he has not only strengthened his own game but also become a crucial asset for his team in high-pressure situations.
His transformation serves as a reminder that with the right approach and persistence, even the most talked-about limitations can be turned into strengths.
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