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'I Know How To Tackle It'- Shreyas Iyer Dismisses Short-Ball Weakness Claims

image-loi4urnyShreyas Iyer got back amongst the runs vs Sri Lanka (Twitter)

Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium witnessed a moment of tension in the post-match press conference when Indian batter Shreyas Iyer was questioned about his technique against short-pitched bowling. This line of inquiry came despite India's thumping 302-run victory over Sri Lanka in the ICC World Cup 2023, where Iyer contributed a vital half-century to India's massive score of 357 for 8. 

Iyer challenges criticism on short-ball handling

While speaking in the post-match press conference, Iyer expressed his displeasure, subtly hinting at the inconsistency of such critiques by pointing out the risk of dismissal inherent in playing any aggressive shot. 

He highlighted his competence against the short ball by referencing the boundaries he has scored off such deliveries, suggesting that the focus on his dismissals against them is exaggerated.

“Have you seen how many short balls I've pulled away for boundaries? If you try to hit a shot, you're bound to get out anyway, irrespective of it being a short or an over-pitched ball. If I get bowled 2-3 times, you'd say he can't play in-swinging deliveries,” said Iyer.

The Mumbai-born batsman further criticised the narrative shaped around his batting, suggesting that it is a media creation rather than a true reflection of his abilities. 

He voiced his frustration, saying that this repetitive questioning has led to an unnecessary psychological burden. Iyer was assertive in stating his self-belief, asserting that despite the occasional dismissal when playing aggressive shots, he does not perceive it as a weakness in his game.

“As players, we're bound to get out on any kind of delivery. You guys have created an atmosphere that I can't play the short ball. And I feel that people are picking that up and it plays on your mind regularly, and you keep working on that,” added the 28-year-old.

Iyer, who hails from the city known for its bouncy pitches, expressed confidence in his skill set to handle such conditions effectively. He remained defiant in the face of scepticism, emphasising his mindset and dismissing the idea that the supposed issue with short-pitched deliveries has had a significant impact on his performance.

“Coming from Mumbai and the Wankhede, where it bounces more than any other pitch in India, I know how to tackle it. When I go to hit shots, I'm bound to get out. Sometimes it works, sometimes it may not. Majority of the times, it hasn't worked for me, which is why you think it's a problem for me. But in my mind, I know there's no problem,” concluded Iyer.

Following this decisive win, the Indian team is set to face South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 5, aiming to continue their winning streak in the tournament.