Ponting surprised by Shreyas Iyer's absence from Indian cricket team
What's the story
Former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting expressed surprise over Shreyas Iyer's absence from the Indian team in recent years. The revelation followed Iyer's explosive performance in the first ODI against England in Nagpur, where he smashed a brisk 59 off just 36 balls. Additionally, Ponting also predicted Iyer could be India's trump card in the upcoming Champions Trophy matches. Here are further details.
Selection surprise
Iyer's unexpected inclusion in Nagpur ODI
Iyer wasn't initially picked for the Nagpur ODI but got his opportunity after Virat Kohli was injured. This twist of fate shocked many, including former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra. Despite his recent absence from the national team, Iyer has an impressive record in international cricket with major contributions during the 2023 World Cup where he scored 530 runs in 11 matches.
Stellar record
Ponting's take on Iyer's World Cup performance
Speaking to ICC Review, Ponting recognized Iyer's stellar 2023 World Cup performance, saying, "He had a terrific World Cup back in India where he played beautifully in the middle-order and I actually felt then that he'd almost cemented that spot and made that his own." However, injuries and controversies (including him losing his central contract) kept Iyer out of the national team. Despite the setbacks, he has kept up an impressive domestic record this season.
Future prospects
Ponting's predictions for Iyer in Champions Trophy
Looking ahead to the Champions Trophy, Ponting believes Iyer's skills will be particularly effective on Dubai's slow wickets. "He's got the game that will stand up to the white-ball formats, especially in that part of the world," said Ponting. He further added, "On those wickets -- the slower, lower wickets -- he's dynamic on those. We know how good a hitter of spin bowling he is."
IPL partnership
Ponting and Iyer to collaborate in Punjab Kings
Ponting and Iyer will work together at Punjab Kings after the franchise bought Iyer for a whopping ₹26.75 crore in the mega auction (2025). "If Shreyas is out in the middle, then he's as good as anyone. So, I'm delighted to see him back in the team," said Ponting. This will be a new chapter in both their careers in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
ODI career highlights
Iyer's impressive track record in ODIs
Iyer has been a consistent performer for India in ODIs, having scored 2,480 runs with five centuries at an average of 47.69. As mentioned, he was also key to India's successful World Cup campaign in 2023, scoring 530 runs at an average of 66.25 and a strike rate of 113.24. He also smashed five fifties and three tons in the tournament.
Vs ENG
Iyer slams his maiden ODI fifty against England
Iyer raced to his 19th half-century in ODI cricket. The middle-order batter reached the landmark in the 1st ODI against England at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur. Iyer made a statement after India lost both openers within 20 runs while chasing 249. He added a 94-run partnership with Shubman Gill, who came in at number three. This was Iyer 10th fifty in ODI cricket at home. Notably, four of his five ODI tons have come in home conditions.