Shreyas Iyer's incredible redemption arc: BCCI contract snub to IPL final as captain (2024)

February 28: Axed from BCCI's annual central contracts

May 26: On verge of winning the IPL title as KKR captain

Everyone loves a redemption story. Redemption stories are some of the most relatable tales we encounter. We empathize with the main characters, sharing their losses and triumphs. And in the ongoing cricketing spectrum, Shreyas Iyer's is the latest sports redemption story that will have you cheering as if it were your own. The 29-year-old India cricketer has navigated through a tumultuous period marked by injury setbacks, loss of form, and professional snubs, only to emerge as a resilient and inspiring leader.

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CONTRACT SNUB

The journey leading up to this IPL season was anything but smooth for Iyer. Following a stellar performance in the ODI World Cup last year, where he amassed 530 runs in 11 matches, Iyer hit a rough patch in Test cricket. His standout performance in the previous year's ODI World Cup was quickly overshadowed by a dismal run in Test matches, a recurring back injury, the loss of his annual contract, and exclusion from the upcoming T20 World Cup squad. Everything that could go wrong did for Iyer. However, instead of succumbing to these challenges, he focused on his recovery and returned to domestic cricket. Amidst this turbulence, Iyer didn't lose hope. He channelled his energies into helping Mumbai win their 42nd Ranji Trophy title, displaying resilience and a fighter's spirit. This victory not only restored his confidence but also reinvigorated his passion for the game.

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RECURRING BACK ISSUES

Shreyas Iyer made a comeback from his back injury during the Asia Cup last year and went on to play in the ODI World Cup in October-November. Early in 2024, he was selected for the first two home Tests against England but was subsequently left out for the remaining three. It was reported that Iyer experienced back spasms shortly after the second Test, although he had been cleared for selection. During his time out of the Test squad, he missed some Ranji Trophy games for Mumbai, citing "back spasms," despite being cleared by the BCCI medical staff.

Controversy arose when it was revealed that Iyer attended a KKR pre-season camp during one of the Ranji Trophy games he missed. He returned to play in the Ranji Trophy semi-finals and final, but by then, he had lost his central BCCI contract. This decision came shortly after BCCI secretary Jay Shah warned players not to prioritize the IPL over domestic cricket. Despite meeting the minimum criteria set by the board for matches played, Iyer's contract was not renewed. Additionally, during the Ranji Trophy final against Vidarbha, Iyer was absent from the field for two consecutive days due to back issues.

IPL SPOTLIGHT

Shreyas Iyer's transition from red-ball to white-ball cricket was not seamless. Despite a modest batting return of 345 runs in 13 innings, Iyer's leadership regained its magic, especially highlighted by a blistering 24-ball 58 against SRH that significantly boosted his confidence. The KKR captain demonstrated strategic acumen and calm under pressure, leading the team to the final. With the guidance of team mentor Gautam Gambhir, the synergy within the squad improved remarkably.

This was reflected in their performance as the Knight Riders skyrocketed from seventh-place finishes in the last two seasons to a top-of-the-table finish in the group stage and then to the IPL final, within touching distance of their elusive third title. KKR's journey to the final was characterized by clear strategies and well-defined roles for each player. This clarity and fluidity in their approach were crucial to their success. Iyer's leadership, much like Rohit Sharma's during last year's ODI World Cup, was pivotal in instilling a winning mentality within the team.

On Sunday, Shreyas Iyer will have the chance to cap off a roller-coaster season on a high note. After experiencing the highs of the World Cup, he faced the disappointment of losing his national contract. However, he bounced back by winning the Ranji Trophy with Mumbai and now stands on the brink of leading Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL title as captain. While much of this season's success is attributed to Gautam Gambhir's mentorship, it has equally been about Shreyas Iyer. Determined to prove his worth, Shreyas has undoubtedly made his point, demonstrating his leadership and resilience throughout the tournament.

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