India’s middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer is ready to mark his return to competitive cricket by taking part in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. The tournament started with the game between Pakistan and Nepal in Multan on August 30 (Wednesday) where the Men in Green sealed victory. The Men in Blue on the other hand is currently playing their tournament opener against Pakistan at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
Shreyas Iyer who is making a comeback after a long injury hiatus got a place in the playing XI of the Indian team for the game against Pakistan on Saturday. Earlier, Iyer sustained an injury during Australia’s tour to India. It was during the fourth Test at Ahmedabad when the Mumbai-based batter suffered a back injury. He then underwent surgery in London to recuperate from the injury.
Just before the game, Shreyas Iyer said," I never imagined I'll be playing Asia Cup. The recovery was slow and steady. I passed the fitness test one week before selection, and I was really happy with that. I was nervous last night, couldn't sleep. I am super excited to play this match against Pakistan.”
“It's a phenomenal feeling to be honest as they are the number 1 team at the moment. We are privileged to be a part of this team and journey with Rahul sir (Dravid) as the coach and under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. The spirits are high in the dressing room and we are looking forward to this game. Delighted to be playing against these (Afridi, Rauf, Naseem) bowlers, plan is just to watch the ball and play according to the situation”, he added.
Talking about the game, the Indian team won the toss and opted to bat first in Kandy. Skipper Rohit Sharma has started the proceedings alongside Shubman Gill and was looking in full control against the Pakistan speedsters.
India (Playing XI): Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan(w), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.