In an interview with Star Sports, Iyer highlighted Rohit Sharma’s leadership and influence, stating, “Rohit sets the template, gives us the starts where we have to just go and carry forward from the base he gives.He is a fearless captain. You can see that in his body language, and it’s kind of infectious, rubs off on all the players.”
Regarding the support from the team management, Iyer emphasised the pivotal role of backing from coach Rahul Dravid, especially during a period when he didn’t have a great start to the World Cup.
“It is pivotal, coming from the captain and coach. I did not have a great start to the World Cup. They told me not to worry about the outside noise, we are backing you, so you just got to go out there and express yourself,: Iyer said.
Reflecting on handling pressure situations, Iyer acknowledged the nerves but also expressed the enjoyment of playing in front of a passionate crowd. He noted the intensity of net sessions, particularly facing bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah to prepare for matches.
“To be honest, in pressure situations, you tend to get nervous but at the same time it is also fun playing in front of so many people and if you perform they lift you up. Net sessions are definitely intense. We see to it that we play the most difficult bowler. Whenever Bumrah comes with the new ball I face him because you know it’s going to be difficult and it helps you for the matches,” he added.
In the semifinal, Iyer’s explosive innings of 105 in just 70 balls contributed significantly to India’s formidable total of 397/4. With this century, Iyer made history by becoming the first middle-order batsman to score 500 runs or more in a single edition of the ICC Cricket World Cup.
Iyer’s outstanding form has been a key factor in India’s success, and he continues to be a crucial asset in the team’s journey through the World Cup.
India vs New Zealand World Cup: Kohli, Iyer tons take IND to 397/4
(With inputs from ANI)
