NEW DELHI: Shreyas Iyer, currently out of the Indian national team setup, delivered a timely reminder of his exceptional form by smashing a commanding double century for Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A clash against Odisha at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in Mumbai.
On Thursday, Iyer showcased his prowess with a mammoth 233 off just 228 balls, following up on his earlier century (142) against Maharashtra in the ongoing season.
Returning to action after a one-match break to rest a shoulder injury, Iyer’s latest knock came at a crucial time, just ahead of the IPL mega auction scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
His blazing form is sure to catch the attention of franchises, as Iyer, the first captain not to be retained after leading his IPL team to a title, looks to make a fresh impact in the tournament.
Mumbai was put into bat after Odisha won the toss, and Iyer wasted no time asserting his dominance. His innings was a mix of ruthless aggression and controlled strokeplay, including nine sixes and 24 fours.
Iyer formed a colossal 354-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Siddhesh Lad, propelling Mumbai to a commanding 508/4 at the time of his dismissal. He was eventually stumped by Harshit Rathod, but not before cementing Mumbai’s dominant position.
The 29-year-old’s sensational form in the Ranji Trophy serves as a strong statement not only ahead of the IPL auction but also as a reminder to the national selectors amid India’s ongoing batting concerns. His back-to-back centuries highlight his hunger for a return to the Indian squad, particularly after being sidelined from recent series.
Despite being overlooked for India’s T20I series against South Africa and the India A tour to Australia, Iyer has kept his focus, proving his value in domestic cricket. Having lost his place in the national Test side midway through the England series earlier this year, and not featuring in the BCCI’s central contracts list, Iyer has been fighting to regain his form.
Though he endured a tough Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup campaign, his resurgence in the Ranji Trophy is evident.
Iyer’s batting partner, Siddhesh Lad, also found redemption, breaking a six-year century drought in First-Class cricket. Together, the pair ensured Mumbai raced to a formidable total, with Iyer playing the aggressor and Lad anchoring the innings.
With his current form, Iyer has not only reminded selectors of his potential for India but also positioned himself as a key contender in the IPL auction, where franchises are likely to be eager to secure his services.
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