Shreyas Iyer answered critics with his bat: Irfan Pathan

Lavishing praise on Shreyas Iyer, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan says that the stylish batter answered his critics with the bat, following an impressive performance in the first T20 International (T20I) against Sri Lanka in Lucknow.

The 27-year-old hit 58 off just 28 deliveries to help India set a 200-run target. In the absence of Virat Kohli, Shreyas has batted at three in the last two T20Is for India and has made it count.

“This guy has the swag. When this boy is in form, it is enjoyable to watch. The big shots he plays, he doesn’t stay at one spot, but despite that, the balance he generates, it is his own ability," Pathan said on Star Sports.

"I like the non-looker six he hits the most. The two sixes he hit off the slower ones – one-off Karunaratne and later off Chameera. He answered the critics with his bat, you don’t need to answer with your tongue."

Former India batting coach Sanjay reckons India are grooming a back-up No. 3 at the moment and Shreyas is a good option to slot in if needed. “The bench is getting strong. The position at which Shreyas is being sent to bat, he is being continuously sent at No. 3," Bangar said.

"So God forbid if Virat Kohli gets injured in some match, I feel he can become a very good option at No. 3, and that is probably where the team management’s sights are set on Shreyas Iyer,” he opined.

India have now won 10 T20Is in a row and will look to extend that streak when they take on Sri Lanka in the second game of the three-match series in Dharamsala on Saturday (February 26).