'You vs You, No One Is Going To Help You'- Shreyas Iyer Reflects On Hardships Amid Champions Trophy 2025

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Shreyas Iyer has been a pillar of strength in India's batting lineup during the 2025 Champions Trophy, reinforcing his credentials as the team's most reliable No. 4. His performances have played a crucial role in India's campaign, solidifying his place in a position that had long troubled the team.

Coming into the tournament with fine form, Shreyas had already made an impact in the home series against England with three impressive innings.

While he had an off day in India's opening game against Bangladesh, the right-handed batter bounced back emphatically. He registered consecutive half-centuries against Pakistan and New Zealand, with his knock of 79 off 98 balls against the Kiwis proving vital after India suffered an early top-order collapse.

Setting Records at No. 4

Shreyas has redefined the No. 4 role in ODIs, becoming the only batter in history to score over 1,000 runs at the position with an average exceeding 50 and a strike rate of over 100. Additionally, he holds the record for scoring more than 500 runs in an ODI World Cup while batting at No. 4 or lower-an achievement that underscores his consistency on the big stage.

Overcoming Challenges

Reflecting on this difficult period, Shreyas admitted that he received limited support from others and had to rely on himself to navigate through the setbacks. Speaking candidly, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain emphasized how the experience shaped his mindset.

"It has definitely taught me a lot as a person, as an individual, on how to take the responsibility on myself rather than depending on someone else because over a period of time, I realised that it's only you versus you. No one is going to be there to help you in your tough times, but there are only limited people who would be there and you know them very closely. So yeah, I've been just backing myself and showing that sort of confidence in every situation I enter in. I always love to back my instincts."

He also credited his refined technique for helping him stay in the present and remain focused.

"I keep saying that again and again, and I think that's what has helped me in the last 1.5 years. And also the technique that I've developed. I think we had a vivid chat about it. But other than that, just to stay in the present as much as possible and not to dwell in those thoughts which has happened in the past," he told the official broadcaster.

Redemption and Triumph

Despite his stellar ODI record, Shreyas was initially not considered for India's playing XI in the first match of the England series in Nagpur, with the team looking to open with Yashasvi Jaiswal and push Shubman Gill to No. 4. However, an injury to Virat Kohli opened the door for him, and both Shreyas and Gill seized the opportunity with match-winning performances. Once Kohli returned, they resumed their original batting positions, while Jaiswal was ultimately omitted from India's Champions Trophy squad in favor of Varun Chakravarthy.

Away from international cricket, Shreyas remained active in domestic competitions, playing for Mumbai across all three formats. He was a key part of Ajinkya Rahane's Ranji Trophy and Irani Cup-winning squads while also leading Mumbai to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. His leadership skills came to the fore in the IPL as well, where he guided Kolkata Knight Riders to their third title in 2024, adding another feather to his cap.

Shreyas Iyer's resurgence is a testament to his resilience and determination. With his remarkable form in the Champions Trophy, he has once again proven why he is India's most dependable No. 4 in ODIs.