Shreyas Iyer deserves all the credit for his consistent performances in tough situations

Shreyas Iyer played a crucial role in India’s fightback against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025, scoring a vital half-century under pressure on Sunday, March 2, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India’s top three batters were dismissed within the first powerplay, leaving the team in a precarious position. However, Iyer anchored the innings with composure and skill, helping India recover to reach a fighting total of 249/9 on a pitch that was favoring spinners. His 50 runs proved to be a key contribution as India looked to set a competitive total.

Iyer’s form in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy had already caught the attention of the team management. Ahead of the tournament, India played a three-match ODI series at home against England. Iyer was not originally slated to play the first ODI, but a last-minute injury to Virat Kohli gave him a chance to prove his worth. Iyer seized the opportunity with both hands, scoring two half-centuries in three matches and finishing as the second-highest run-scorer of the series. His performance in that series reinforced his value as a reliable middle-order batter, and his crucial knock in the Champions Trophy against New Zealand showcased his ability to perform under pressure when his team needed it most.

“He lost his central contract and was then removed from the team. Iyer also went for surgery, and everything was against him. But credit goes to him for staying focused and returning to Team India. He is now scoring runs consistently,” said former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra. 

Shreyas Iyer played a crucial innings of 79 runs off 98 balls, rescuing India from a challenging situation on a difficult batting track. His composed knock helped India recover after the early dismissals of the top order, guiding the team to a total of 249/9. Iyer’s ability to anchor the innings under pressure was pivotal in setting a fighting target for New Zealand, despite the challenging conditions at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

New Zealand, in response, struggled to build partnerships and were bowled out for 205 in just 45.3 overs, falling short of the target. India’s bowlers executed their plans well, and the spinners took advantage of the conditions to stifle the New Zealand batting lineup. With this win, India secured their place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals, where they will face Australia on Tuesday, March 4. Iyer’s performance in this match, alongside the efforts of the bowlers, was instrumental in India's comprehensive victory. His contribution with the bat was especially important on a pitch that offered little for the batters, showcasing his ability to handle pressure and play crucial knocks when needed the most.

“It’s good to see that his hunger is back. He is playing good innings after innings since he has cemented his place at No.4,” stated former India head coach Ravi Shastri.