Synopsis
Ravi Shastri expresses his delight over the reinstatement of Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan in the central contracts list for the 2024/25 season after their previous omission due to lack of domestic play. He emphasizes Iyer's significant contributions and potential for a Test recall.Key Takeaways
- Ravi Shastri is pleased with Iyer and Kishan's reinstatement.
- Iyer's performance has been exceptional in white-ball cricket.
- Changes in Iyer's batting technique have led to success.
- Punjab Kings captaincy showcases Iyer's skills in IPL.
- There is potential for Iyer's return to Test cricket.
New Delhi, April 23 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri expressed his happiness regarding the reinstatement of Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan in the latest men's central contracts list. Both players were omitted in the last iteration of annual retainers due to a lack of participation in domestic matches, but they have now been re-added for the 2024/25 season.
“It's great to see Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan back in contention, as the situation involved discussions among the team management, the BCCI, and the players. I'm delighted that communication has taken place, issues have been resolved, and they have regained their contracts.
“Specifically, Shreyas Iyer's performance for India over the past 18 months has made him an essential player in the white-ball format, particularly in one-day games. His performance in the Champions Trophy warrants acknowledgment.
“They have truly made their case, but they also faced consequences. A little reprimanding can be necessary at times, yet I'm relieved that everything is now settled,” Shastri stated in the recent episode of The ICC Review.
Iyer, aged 30, was the second-highest run-scorer during India’s victorious campaign in the 2025 Champions Trophy held in Dubai, scoring 243 runs at an average of 48.6, proving to be a reliable anchor at the number four position. Shastri discussed the adjustments Iyer made to his batting technique, which have significantly contributed to his success in 50-over cricket.
“He was very leg-side oriented with a side-on stance. Now, he has adapted by going back and across with a more upright posture. As he moves back, he lifts the bat, which allows him to play effectively on both sides of the wicket. If they bowl short, he can pull or hook, and if there’s width outside the off stump, he can cut. This adjustment has expanded his game instead of being overly leg-side focused, where his rib cage was often targeted, leaving him with limited options.
“Now he has the freedom to play both directions. He is an excellent timer of the ball, and when he gets into position early, he can be quite destructive, as he has demonstrated lately,” he elaborated.
Currently, Iyer is captaining the Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025, where he has scored 263 runs in eight matches at an average of 43.83. India’s next significant challenge is the five-match Test series against England, beginning on June 20. Although Iyer has not played Test cricket since the second Test against England in February 2024, Shastri believes the right-handed batsman has a chance for a recall.
“Particularly, Shreyas Iyer has established himself as a key player in white-ball formats over the last 18 months. He could potentially earn a recall for Test matches, but it will depend on the competition. In white-ball formats, he is a clear choice, but in Test cricket, we must assess the available players,” he concluded.
