Shreyas Iyer Shines with Double Century in Ranji Trophy, Sends Strong Reminder to India Stars
After missing the Tripura game to recover from injuries, including a recurring back issue, Iyer’s refreshed approach was evident in his explosive knock.
Shreyas Iyer made a sensational return to form with a brilliant double century for Mumbai against Odisha in the Ranji Trophy on Thursday. Scoring 200 runs off 201 balls, Iyer ended a seven-year wait for his first-class double hundred, delivering a timely reminder of his batting caliber. His last first-class double ton came in 2017 for India A against Australia, where he scored an unbeaten 202.
Iyer’s knock came at a crucial moment for Mumbai, following the early dismissal of captain Ajinkya Rahane for a golden duck. Stepping up at number five, Iyer formed a crucial partnership with Siddhesh Lad, who played a steady hand, as the pair propelled Mumbai to a dominant 385/3 at stumps on Day 1. On Day 2, Iyer reached his double century, showcasing a mix of aggression and flair, with 22 boundaries and eight sixes.
This innings marked a significant comeback for Iyer, who had been struggling with a century drought for 38 innings. His last first-class century came in his Test debut against New Zealand in 2021. After missing the Tripura game to recover from injuries, including a recurring back issue, Iyer’s refreshed approach was evident in his explosive knock.
Iyer’s double century comes at a time when India’s Test batting has been under scrutiny following a recent 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand. While Iyer is not part of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad, his remarkable form in the domestic circuit is likely to put added pressure on India’s top-order batsmen to perform during the critical series in Australia.
Iyer’s knock was a mix of aggression and precision, with his century coming off just 101 balls. Alongside him, Lad played a vital role with a patient 116 off 234 balls, giving Mumbai a solid foundation as they reached 464/3 by the end of Day 2, with Iyer at 207 and Lad at 136.
Iyer’s commanding double-century performance is a clear signal of his return to form, and it could have significant implications for India’s Test batting lineup moving forward.
