Shreyas Iyer drops epic Virat Kohli mention after scoring stellar century at No. 3 vs Australia: ‘No chance of stealing’

Shreyas Iyer, the Indian batter, admitted that he was lonely after suffering a back injury that ended his World Cup campaign.

Iyer failed to establish his spot in the Indian middle-order lineup, batting just once in the continental competition, shortly after being added to the team for the Asia Cup following a protracted injury hiatus.

At the Asia Cup, Iyer had back spasms, but his colleague KL Rahul completed an incredible recovery by smashing a stunning century against Pakistan.

Ishan Kishan, a wicketkeeper-battler, decided to enter the fray in the interim and use his notable hits to establish himself as a viable middle-order option. While Rahul took over as India's acting captain for the first two One Day Internationals (ODIs) against Australia, Kishan was still included in the World Cup team.

There were still many things up for grabs for the fit-again Iyer, especially since the Australia series was India's last trip before the ICC World Cup.

Iyer proved his mettle against Australian bowlers on Sunday, capping the World Cup hosts' historic series victory. Iyer, who was moved up to bat in the order, produced a fantastic innings of 105 off 90 balls.

During the World Cup, the top batter took the No. 3 spot, which is saved for run-machine Virat Kohli. Winner of the match Iyer specifically mentioned former India captain Kohli, who was voted Player of the Match in Indore.

Virat Kohli is a legendary player

I'm glad I was able to carry out my intentions precisely today. Basically, I didn't want to make things more complicated when I batted. I wanted to set my sights on something since it gives me self-confidence. I can play any position and do whatever my team wants me to because I am adaptable.

There is no likelihood of Virat (Kohli), one of the greatest, taking over at number three. Iyer stated during the post-game presentation, "I just need to keep scoring wherever (at any position) I bat."

In the third One-Day International (ODI) on Wednesday, Kohli, who was rested for the first two games of the Australia series, will be back in the Indian playing XI. Like Kohli, Iyer reacted passionately when the Indian batsman reached his third century in the last ODI series match against Australia.

In the second ODI, India's No. 3 batsman needed 39 singles to hammer home an outstanding century. Iyer blasted three sixes and eleven fours while batting with a strike rate of more than 116.

‘I was in a lonely space’

It was an exhilarating experience. I was feeling alone despite working so hard these past three months. My family, friends, and teammates were there to support me. I wanted to be outside and take part in the contests because I was watching them on TV. Thankful that I still have self-confidence.

Iyer stated during India's 99-run victory over Australia in Indore, "I knew what I was aiming for, even though the pain and niggles kept coming."