Image: Replacing the injured Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer hit a 59 runs, helping India to a four-wicket win / © NDTV Sports
In the first ODI between India and England in Nagpur, Shreyas Iyer unexpectedly found himself in the playing XI after receiving a late-night call from captain Rohit Sharma. Iyer was watching a movie when Rohit informed him that he might play due to Virat Kohli’s swollen knee. Without hesitation, Iyer prepared himself and went to sleep early.
Initially, Iyer was not supposed to feature in the match, similar to his Asia Cup experience when an injury sidelined him. However, his selection proved vital as India, struggling at 19/2, needed stability. Iyer scored a quick 59 off 36 balls, including nine fours and two sixes, striking at 163.88. His crucial partnership with Shubman Gill helped India chase 248 with ease, securing a four-wicket victory with 68 balls to spare, giving them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.