From Pitch Perfection to Living Room Laughter: Shreyas Iyer’s Unexpected Delivery
Even world-class cricketers, accustomed to facing searing pace and crafty spin on grand stadiums, can find themselves challenged in the most unexpected arenas. Indian star batsman Shreyas Iyer recently found this out firsthand, not on a manicured pitch, but in the cozy confines of his own living room. A heartwarming video, quickly making rounds online, captured Iyer engaged in a casual game of cricket with his mother. The moment that truly stole the show? A delivery from his mom that cleanly breached his defence, eliciting jubilant cries of “out!” from the proud bowler.
A Mother’s Wicket: The Heartwarming Clip Ignites Social Media
The delightful footage, shared by Iyer’s IPL franchise, Punjab Kings, resonated deeply with fans, showcasing the human side of a celebrated athlete. Punjab Kings captioned the viral post with a witty remark: “Only time SARPANCH won’t mind getting bowled!” – a nod to Iyer’s nickname and the rare instance of him willingly accepting defeat. The unbridled joy on his mother’s face as she celebrated her “wicket” offered a glimpse into the strong, playful bond shared within the Iyer household.
Beyond the Boundary: The Playful Dynamics of the Iyer Family
This candid moment offers more than just a laugh; it illuminates the exceptionally close relationship Shreyas shares with his parents. Their home is evidently a place filled with laughter, where even a global cricket sensation remains their beloved son. Visitors to the Iyer residence have often been regaled with tales of Shreyas’s amusing pranks. His father once recounted a hilarious incident where Shreyas, feigning an elaborate English accent, called to gauge his father’s willingness to travel to the UK for a county game. And his mother, while bustling in the kitchen, often hears his unique inquiry about dinner: “Aaj kya bigaad rahi ho (what meal are you spoiling today)?” Despite his towering achievements and demanding schedule, Shreyas remains notably grounded, a testament to his upbringing. In a rarity for modern cricketers, he’s still lovingly chauffeured to the airport by both his parents.
The Curious Case of Shreyas Iyer’s Test Omission
While his home life appears idyllic, Shreyas Iyer’s professional journey has recently hit a perplexing roadblock. Despite widespread advocacy from cricket experts and a prolific run of form across formats, the dynamic right-hander found himself excluded from India’s extensive 18-member squad for the ongoing Test series against England. This decision has fueled a robust debate, raising significant questions about the 30-year-old’s long-term future in red-ball cricket at the international level.
A Season of Unstoppable Form: Iyer’s Domestic Dominance
Iyer’s recent performances make his Test exclusion all the more puzzling. The batter enjoyed a career-best season in the Indian Premier League, captaining Punjab Kings to a remarkable runners-up finish. His bat spoke volumes, amassing an impressive 604 runs at a staggering average of over 50, complemented by an explosive strike rate of 175.07, including 39 towering sixes. Beyond the glitz of the IPL, Iyer also showcased his class in domestic red-ball cricket, having a productive Ranji Trophy season. Furthermore, he led his state side, Mumbai, to triumph in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in December 2024, demonstrating his leadership acumen and batting prowess in the shorter format.
Statistical Brilliance: An Irresistible Case for Inclusion?
His first-class record further solidifies the argument for his Test recall. Across nine first-class matches, including an Irani Cup triumph, Iyer aggregated a substantial 699 runs, embellished with two centuries and three half-centuries. His last appearance for India in Test whites was during the home series against England in 2024. Yet, even this compelling statistical portfolio and consistent form weren’t enough to secure his return to the Test squad.
Selectors’ Stance: The “No Room” Justification
Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, addressing the media in Mumbai during the squad announcement in late May, provided the official reasoning behind Iyer’s continued absence. “Yes, Shreyas Iyer has played well in domestic cricket,” Agarkar conceded, “but at the moment, there is no room for him on the Test Team.” This concise explanation, while official, has left many fans and pundits questioning the criteria for selection when a player of Iyer’s caliber and recent form finds himself on the sidelines. The situation leaves many wondering what more Shreyas Iyer needs to do to earn back his rightful place in India’s Test squad.
