The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to unveil India’s squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy this week. The tournament, making its return after an eight-year hiatus, will commence on February 19, featuring eight top teams. Many of the cricketers who played pivotal roles in India’s campaign at the ODI World Cup 2023 are expected to don the national colours once again, including middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer.
Iyer, one of the standout performers in the World Cup, scored 530 runs across 11 matches, boasting an impressive average of 66.25, with two centuries and three fifties. The 30-year-old Mumbai-born batter, a key player at No. 4, has expressed his readiness to adapt to any role in the batting order.
Speaking about his potential selection, Shreyas Iyer said, “Absolutely. I’m flexible and ready to bat anywhere in the batting order. KL (Rahul) and I played a crucial role in the middle during the World Cup. We had a great season together. It was just the final that didn’t go as planned. It will be a proud moment for me to be picked for the Champions Trophy and represent the country again,” he told ESPNCricinfo.
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Iyer’s last international appearance came during the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in August 2024, where he struggled, scoring only 38 runs. Despite this dip, his position in India’s ODI setup remains solid, thanks to his stellar World Cup form.
Shreyas Iyer: “KL Rahul and I played a key role in the 2023 World Cup middle order. It was a memorable journey, and representing India in the Champions Trophy would be a proud moment.” 🇮🇳 ❤️#ShreyasIyer #KLRahul #CWC23 #ChampionsTrophy2025 #Cricket pic.twitter.com/SeV2jjMreL
— Akaran.A (@Akaran_1) January 13, 2025
Meanwhile, Iyer is gearing up for the IPL 2025, where he will represent Punjab Kings after being acquired for a record-breaking INR 26.75 crore in the mega auction. For his new franchise, Iyer will take on the No. 3 role and embrace the anchor position.
“I want to be that anchor at No. 3 who can stabilize the innings, bat until the 15th-16th over once set, and finish strong. That’s the role I played during my time with DC, and it aligns with my strengths. When brainstorming with Ricky (Ponting), this position was always envisioned for me,” Shreyas Iyer remarked.
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With his proven track record and adaptability, Shreyas Iyer will aim to shine both in the Champions Trophy and the IPL, reinforcing his status as a dependable batter for India and Punjab Kings.