With great power comes great responsibility. Shreyas Iyer attempted to decipher the mystery surrounding the incredible leadership qualities of the Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma that has enabled him, and also Iyer, to evolve into the best version of themselves.
Iyer, having been in the shadows with India, has learned the hard way and is now trying to earn his way back into the respective Indian team as the preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy draw closer.
Whilst the likelihood of making a return to the international fold, Iyer could most likely be with his captain Rohit Sharma with whom he shares a strong bond.
“I cannot deny how amazing it has been playing with Rohit bhai. Over the years, we have developed a strong bond, and off the field, he is always friendly and entertaining,” Iyer asserted.
“I have seen him captain a side, and his composure in moments of extreme pressure is unparalleled; he also gives the players a chance to be themselves. I like that he knows how to manage himself when the highs are very high or very low and the game in that respect.”
“I’ve picked up a lot from him, more so on the aspects of how he balances the light moments with the serious moments of pressure.”
It has been a long time probably because of his absence from the Test side February of 2024. Iyer has intensified his game ever since as he recently made the round figure century ending major over a year stand 142 run against Maharashtra during the Ranji Trophy, as he also remained active in the domestic red-legged fixtures having played in the Duleep Trophy, and Irani Cup and ongoing Ranji Trophy as well.
One cannot say that the path towards Down Under is near for him, however, it is a path that Iyer knows.
The competition may be cut-throat to get into the Test squad, however, should an opportunity arise, he is willing and able to seize the moment.
“Sooner or later, I do wish to play in Australia, particularly in any of the Border-Gavaskar series, which to me is one of the gravitating challenges one faces in cricket. The weather, the competition, and the level of seriousness call for every ounce of one’s ability, and such are the instances that every cricketer yearns to be in. I’m preparing myself to grab that opportunity and leave a mark,” Iyer remarked.