Shreyas Iyer Smashes Archer for Consecutive Sixes

Shreyas Iyer showcased his brilliance once again, delivering a blistering half-century in the first ODI between India and England in Nagpur. Initially not expected to be in the playing XI, he was brought in as a replacement for Virat Kohli, who suffered a knee injury the night before the match. Seizing the opportunity, Iyer smashed a quickfire 59 off 36 balls, guiding India to chase down the 249-run target with over 11 overs to spare. He also demonstrated notable improvement in his game, especially in handling short-pitched deliveries.

Shreyas Iyer’s vulnerability against the short ball has often been a talking point in his career. However, in this match, he silenced his critics with a confident and commanding display.

Shreyas Iyer Shines with a Blistering Knock, Silences Short-Ball Critics

During the seventh over, England’s fiery pacer Jofra Archer tested Iyer with pace and bounce. The Indian batter, however, responded in style. Showcasing remarkable footwork and timing, he dispatched two consecutive deliveries for sixes, proving his adaptability against short-pitched bowling.

The fifth ball of the over was pitched up just above waist height. Iyer picked it up early and executed a powerful shot over mid-wicket for a maximum. Archer, determined to trouble him, bowled an even shorter delivery on the next ball. However, Iyer was ready for the challenge. He read the length perfectly and sliced it over third man with exquisite timing for another six. His aggressive approach not only boosted India’s momentum but also demonstrated his improved technique against the short ball.

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Iyer stepped in to bat with India struggling at 19-2 after skipper Rohit Sharma was dismissed for just two runs. However, the IPL-winning captain quickly turned the game around, taking the opposition bowlers to task with an aggressive display.

He built a crucial 94-run partnership with Shubman Gill, who contributed a solid 87 runs.

Iyer’s explosive knock featured nine boundaries and two sixes, playing a key role in setting up India’s 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Following his dismissal, all-rounder Axar Patel was promoted up the order and made an immediate impact, scoring a vital half-century.

Earlier, India’s bowlers put in a dominant performance to dismiss England for 248. Debutant Harshit Rana and experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja starred with the ball, each claiming three wickets for the Men in Blue.

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