Shreyas Iyer wasted no time in reminding everyone of his all-round value as he marked his ODI return with a stunning piece of fielding in the opening match of the India vs New Zealand series in Vadodara on January 11. The Indian vice-captain produced a lightning-quick direct hit to run out New Zealand skipper Michael Bracewell, shifting momentum firmly back in India’s favour during a tense phase of the innings.

The moment came on the final ball of Harshit Rana’s 43rd over. Rana fired in a full delivery that Daryl Mitchell pushed towards long-on. Bracewell, stationed at the non-striker’s end, called for a risky second run. Iyer, however, was already charging in, picked up the ball cleanly and released it in one swift motion.

Michael Bracewell was inches short as the ball crashed into the stumps, reducing New Zealand to six down with seven overs remaining. For a player renowned for his athleticism, it was a signature Iyer moment. Over the years, the right-hander has built a reputation as one of India’s safest and sharpest fielders, capable of producing match-changing run-outs when it matters most.

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This effort only reinforced why he remains a crucial part of India’s limited-overs setup. The run-out also marked Iyer’s first ODI appearance since missing the South Africa series due to an injury picked up during the Australia tour in October. His comeback to competitive cricket has been impressive.

Shreyas-ன் குறி தப்பாது!🎯🔥

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In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Iyer struck a commanding 82 off 53 balls for Mumbai against Himachal Pradesh before following it up with a brisk 45 against Punjab, showing that both his timing and confidence are back.

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His ODI numbers underline his importance to India’s middle order. In 2025, Iyer scored 496 runs in 10 innings at an average close to 50, including five half-centuries. Since 2022, he has piled up over 2,100 runs at an average above 50, highlighting his consistency at the international level.

At the time of Bracewell’s dismissal, New Zealand were 263 for 7 after 46.5 overs, with Mitchell and Clarke at the crease, but Iyer’s brilliance had already given India a crucial edge.