‘I never thought I struggled’ - Shreyas Iyer reacts to criticism against short balls during England series

While talking about his struggles against short-pitch deliveries, India middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer mentioned that he never felt the same and gave an explanation why he kept falling for short balls against England in the rescheduled fifth Test at Edgbaston.

Notably, the 28-year-old Iyer was dismissed by veteran James Anderson in the first innings for 15 while Matthew Potts got the better of him while he was batting on 19 in the second. His struggle continued in the shorter formats as well and soon, became a matter of concern. However, explaining about the same, the cricketer said that English bowlers were bowling really well and that’s the reason he got out.

“Talking about the first innings at Edgbaston, it was a terrific delivery (off James Anderson) and it seamed after pitching and swung in the air. Any player would have got out to that one. In the second innings (off Matthew Potts), I tried to play the pull and was caught. In my mind, I never thought I struggled. About the noise that has been created outside, I like to turn a deaf ear to it and keep things simple. I love the line ignorance is bliss. That’s what I do,” Iyer told Times of India.

I am someone who likes to learn from setbacks and failures: Shreyas

Despite performing well in the white-ball format, the Kolkata Knight Riders skipper failed to make it to the Indian team during the T20 World Cup. He mentioned it to be disappointing but also pointed out the positives of it.

“I tell myself that it’s not the end of the world. You will get many chances. You also must realize that there will be opportunities to succeed in things even outside international cricket. Playing domestic cricket is a great way to share your experiences with other players and try and help them if you can. 

When I didn’t make the cut for the World Cup, it gave me a chance to work on myself, help Mumbai win the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and keep playing and keep learning. Yes, it is disappointing to miss out on playing ICC events, but I am someone who likes to learn from setbacks and failures,” Iyer said.

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