Shreyas Iyer has put an end to a wretched run of losses, securing his maiden series win as India’s T20I captain. India hammered Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the second T20I at the Harare Sports Club on April 25 to seal the series. This victory is a huge relief for Iyer after he lost two consecutive series following his appointment as captain of India’s T20I team.
Under Iyer’s leadership, India lost 2‑0 to Ireland and then suffered a 4‑0 defeat to England in a five‑match T20I series after the first game was abandoned due to rain. Iyer was jubilant after the “comprehensive victory” and lauded Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan for their remarkable fifties, which helped India post a massive total.
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“I feel exultant, especially with the way we won today,” Iyer said during the post‑match presentation. “It was a comprehensive victory and a brilliant contribution from each and every player. Starting with the batting, I think the way Ishan and Tilak played was outstanding. A few of the shots they played were rakanaka (beautiful), and they were really pleasing to the eye.
“At the start, I felt anything between 180 and 200 would have been a par score, but we ended up getting 220, which was the icing on the cake. So, brilliant contributions from both of them. Then, with the ball, as usual, the bowlers came in, executed their lines and lengths precisely, and bundled them out for 130‑odd. I think that basically tells you the story of the game.”
Shreyas Iyer signals changes to playing XI after Prince Yadav’s hamstring injury
Iyer acknowledged that they might have to make a few changes to the playing XI for the final game of the series on July 26. Right‑arm pacer Prince Yadav was seen clutching his hamstring as he ran in to bowl after dismissing Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza. He was immediately taken off the field.
“Let’s see. We haven’t decided yet and I haven’t spoken to the coach. Unfortunately, one of our players (Prince) picked up an injury, so there could be a couple of changes,” Iyer added.
