Team India’s middle-order batsman, Shreyas Iyer, has revealed his decision to participate in the Ranji Trophy ahead of the Test series against England was aimed at regaining his red-ball rhythm. Omitted from the T20I squad for the Afghanistan series, Iyer opted to feature in the Ranji Trophy clash against Andhra, contributing a brisk 48 runs off a run-a-ball and aiding Mumbai in securing a crucial victory.
Addressing the challenges posed by Andhra’s bowlers, who sought to exploit his vulnerability against short-pitched deliveries, Iyer acknowledged the upcoming Test series against England would demand heightened intensity. His strategic move to play in the Ranji Trophy was fueled by the desire to establish a rhythm conducive to the demanding format of Test cricket.
“It was a nice experience. I wasn’t expecting much from myself to be honest, but I wanted to create a rhythm going forward into the five-Test matches. The intensity will be high. Also, to stand on the field for 90 overs takes a lot of effort, so it all started from here (match against Andhra Pradesh),” Shreyas Iyer told JioCinema.
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Reflecting on the experience, Iyer expressed modest expectations but emphasized the importance of creating a rhythm for the impending five-Test matches against England. Recognizing the physical demands of standing on the field for extended periods, he credited the Ranji Trophy match against Andhra Pradesh as the starting point for his preparation.
Shreyas Iyer Happy With Match Fitness In Ranji Trophy Game Vs Andhra Pradesh Ahead Of IND Vs ENG Test Serieshttps://t.co/MT0OOBsczb
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“You have to take one match at a time and not think much ahead. You have to take all the factors into consideration. In terms of your mental ability, the stress is going to be a lot but at the same time, you have to handle the pressure situations well. So, these are the pros and cons of playing Test matches,” he added.
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Despite a less-than-ideal performance in the Tests against South Africa, Iyer retained his spot for the initial two matches against England. Acknowledging his vulnerability to short-pitched deliveries, a weakness exploited by Proteas bowlers, Shreyas Iyer anticipated a similar challenge from the English pacers.
“You have to be mentally inclined towards adapting across 90 overs and as I mentioned, this was the right practice for me coming into the Ranji Trophy and getting used to the situation,” he added.
