Shreyas Iyer’s Duleep Trophy Failure Draws Criticism from Former Pakistan Batter Basit Ali
India batter Shreyas Iyer’s dismal performance in the first innings of the Duleep Trophy match against India A has sparked criticism from former Pakistan batter Basit Ali. Iyer, who captained India D, failed to make an impact, getting dismissed for a duck after facing just seven deliveries.
Ali expressed disappointment over Iyer’s lack of contribution, stating that he “should’ve scored 100-200 runs.” He questioned Iyer’s concentration and hunger for Test cricket, suggesting that the batter is more focused on boundaries than the longer format of the game.
“As a cricketer, it saddens me to see him. If you are getting out in front, your concentration isn’t in the game. And especially the red-ball game. He has scored two centuries in the World Cup, he’s an IPL-winning captain, he should’ve scored 100-200 runs here,” Ali said on his YouTube channel.
Ali further expressed doubts about Iyer’s desire for Test cricket, stating that he lacks the determination required for the format. “Iyer doesn’t have the hunger for red-ball cricket anymore. He’s only hungry for boundaries. You should prioritize it. If he’s thinking he is similar to Virat Kohli after hitting two centuries in World Cup, no, it doesn’t happen that way,” he added.
Iyer’s poor performance in the Duleep Trophy comes after a string of subpar performances in the Test format. He has failed to reach the 50-run mark in his previous 13 outings, leading to his exclusion from the Indian Test squad.
Ali’s criticism highlights the concerns surrounding Iyer’s Test credentials. The batter will need to rediscover his form and demonstrate a greater hunger for the longer format if he wants to regain his place in the Indian Test team.
