Shreyas Iyer says 'I was not supposed to play' - Will India batter play in 2nd ODI vs England?

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India recorded their first ODI victory under Gautam Gambhir's tutelage as they shrugged off England in the first match on Thursday (February 6) in Nagpur.

In a modest run chase of 249, India lost two wickets early, but it was Shreyas Iyer who broke the shackles with a batting blitzkrieg. Iyer, who made a return to the team after almost a year, scored a quickfire 59 off just 36 deliveries, providing a much-needed counterattack when the chips are down.

But after the match, Iyer shared a eyebrow-raising incident. Virat Kohli got a knee injury which ruled him out of the first match. Although everyone thought Yashasvi Jaiswal replaced him, Iyer confirmed it was him who came into the playing XI due to Kohli's unforeseen issue.

"As you all know, I wasn't supposed to play today. Virat unfortunately got injured, and then I got the opportunity. I kept myself prepared. I knew that at any point in time, I could get a chance to play. The same thing happened with me last year as well during the Asia Cup. I got injured, and someone else came in and scored a century," Iyer stated after the match.

Before the ODI series, Iyer's role wasn't under scrutiny as he was expected to bolster the middle order with his aggressive stroke play. However, the latest revelation suggests a shift in India's batting plans. If Jaiswal secures a regular spot and Shubman Gill moves to No. 3, Kohli may be slotted at No. 4.

Iyer got a call from Rohit Sharma

Iyer's impactful fifty against England added a new headache to India's selection choices for the second encounter. He also shared an amusing anecdote about how he found out he was playing.

"I got a call from the skipper (Rohit Sharma) saying that you may play because Virat has got a swollen knee. I went back to my room and went off to sleep straight away," Iyer added.

Will Shreyas Iyer play in 2nd ODI vs England?

As the Champions Trophy is on the horizon, Iyer will be aiming to continue his batting prowess to launch a serious bid for his selection in the playing XI. But if Virat Kohli returns from injury, it is to be seen if Iyer keeps his slot. It will only be rational that Iyer plays after his magnificent batting display in the first match. But given the current team management and their thoughts, Shreyas' position is not assured.