Shreyas Iyer: The Rise of India’s Dependable Middle-Order Maestro
**Let's Begin**
Shreyas Iyer is one of the most exciting and consistent middle-order batters in modern Indian cricket. Known for his aggressive stroke play, cool composure under pressure, and leadership qualities, Iyer has established his spot in India’s white-ball and Test squads. From his sensational start in local cricket to his match-winning heroics in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international cricket, Iyer’s path has been nothing short of amazing.
In this article, we’ll explore: - Shreyas Iyer’s professional trajectory - His current teams (international and IPL) - The number of players in his teams - **5 most memorable and surprising moments** of his career - His effect on Indian cricket
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## **Shreyas Iyer’s Cricket Career Overview**
### **Early Life and Domestic Career** Born on **December 6, 1994**, in Mumbai, Shreyas Iyer climbed through the ranks of Mumbai’s cricketing circuit. He made his **first-class debut in 2014** and quickly impressed with his aggressive hitting style. His breakthrough came in the **2015-16 Ranji Trophy season**, where he accumulated **1,321 runs**, the second-highest in a single Ranji season.
### **Indian Premier League (IPL) Journey** Iyer was recruited by the **Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals)** in **2015** and immediately became a vital player. His leadership talents shined when he was chosen **captain in 2018**, guiding Delhi to their **first-ever IPL final in 2020**. In **2022**, he was acquired by **Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)** for **₹12.25 crore** and designated captain.
### **International Career** - **ODI Debut**: December 10, 2017, vs Sri Lanka - **T20I Debut**: November 1, 2017, versus New Zealand - **Test Debut**: November 25, 2021, vs New Zealand
Iyer has been a steady performer in ODIs, with vital runs in the **2023 World Cup**, including a **brilliant 82 against Sri Lanka** in the semi-final.
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## **Shreyas Iyer’s Current Teams & Squad Size**
### **1. Indian National Cricket Team** - **Format**: ODI, T20I, Test - **Total Players (2024 Squad)**: Around **25-30** (varies dependent on format)
### **2. Kolkata Knight Riders (IPL)** - **Total Players (2024 Squad)**: **25**
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## **5 Most Memorable & Shocking Moments in Shreyas Iyer’s Career**
### **1. Record-Breaking Ranji Trophy Season (2015-16)**
Shreyas Iyer revealed himself as a potential star with a **record-breaking Ranji Trophy season**, scoring **1,321 runs** at an average of **73.38**, including **4 centuries**. His gutsy batting against seasoned bowlers makes him a hot prospect for the IPL and Indian squad.
### **2. Leading Delhi Capitals to Their First IPL Final (2020)**
After years of underperformance, Iyer took over Delhi Capitals' captaincy in **2018** and revitalized the squad. In **2020**, he guided them to their **first-ever IPL final**, scoring **519 runs** that season. Though they lost to Mumbai Indians, Iyer’s leadership was warmly lauded.
### **3. Test Debut Century versus New Zealand (2021)**
Iyer made his **Test debut at Kanpur (2021)** and instantly established his dominance with a **105-run knock** in the first innings. He became the **16th Indian to hit a century on Test debut**, showcasing his flexibility across formats.
### **4. Back Injury & World Cup 2023 Comeback ** In **2023**, Iyer sustained a **serious back injury**, causing him to miss the **IPL and WTC Final**. Many doubted his World Cup participation, but he made a magnificent return, hitting **530 runs**, including **two centuries**, playing a vital role in India’s route to the final.
### **5. Captaincy Snub & KKR’s Struggles (2023-24)**
After guiding KKR in **2022**, Iyer missed **2023 due to injury**. In **2024**, he was shockingly **not retained as full-time captain**, with Shreyas Iyer taking a backseat in leadership. This choice astonished supporters, given his recent success with Delhi.
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## **Conclusion: Shreyas Iyer’s Impact on Indian Cricket**
Shreyas Iyer has been a **pillar of consistency** in India’s middle order, notably in ODIs. His ability to withstand pressure, play spin well, and lead teams makes him vital. Despite injuries and defeats, he has always fought back stronger.
With the **2024 T20 World Cup** and more Test matches coming, Iyer remains an important player for India. Whether for the national team or KKR, fans should anticipate more match-winning heroics from this Mumbai master.
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