By Swapneel Deshpande November 5, 2023
In a nail-biting encounter at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Shreyas Iyer played a masterful innings that proved to be the turning point as India triumphed over South Africa in the crucial top-of-the-table clash of the 2023 Cricket World Cup. Iyer’s textbook ODI knock on a challenging pitch showcased his incredible composure and resilience, ultimately guiding India to victory. Shreyas Iyer has most 50 plus scores by an Indian number 4 in a single World Cup edition.
Facing a formidable South African bowling attack, Shreyas Iyer’s 17th ODI half-century was a testament to his adaptability and skill. The pitch conditions were far from ideal, and the South African spinners, Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi, were in control during the middle overs. Iyer and Virat Kohli built a vital 100-plus partnership for the third wicket, which allowed India to recover from early setbacks and put the Proteas under pressure.
Shreyas Iyer’s innings was characterized by his ability to shift gears. After a slow start, where he struggled to find gaps in the field, Iyer accelerated his scoring rate, reaching his fifty in 64 balls. He then accelerated further, scoring his next 20 runs in just 14 balls. This transition from a patient approach to a more aggressive one was a pivotal moment in the match.
The South African spin duo of Maharaj and Shamsi had been challenging to deal with, but Iyer’s determination and patience paid off. He did not throw away his wicket and waited for the right opportunity to attack. When he reached his half-century, he took on Tabraiz Shamsi, demonstrating his ability to adapt to the situation.
Iyer’s resilience and determination were on full display as he departed for an impressive 77 runs in the 37th over. Lungi Ngidi managed to break the partnership, but Iyer’s contribution had already set the stage for India’s success.
Former South African batting maestro, AB de Villiers, lauded Shreyas Iyer’s performance, acknowledging his composure on a challenging pitch. De Villiers praised Iyer for his incredible half-century, highlighting his ability to handle the tough period early on and not panic, which ultimately proved to be the difference in the match.
Shreyas Iyer’s journey in the 2023 World Cup had its ups and downs, but his stellar form in this crucial encounter against South Africa has catapulted him into the limelight. His partnership with Virat Kohli and his exceptional composure under pressure could prove to be defining moments for India in the tournament.
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