Shreyas Iyer’s Stunning Comeback Story – From Losing BCCI Contract to Reclaiming His Place in Team India

Shreyas Iyer has scripted one of the finest comeback stories in Indian cricket. After losing his BCCI Central Contract last year, the stylish Mumbai batter bounced back with consistent performances across domestic and international cricket.

Iyer shone in the ICC Champions Trophy, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer with 243 runs in five innings at an average of 48.60. His tally included two half-centuries and a top score of 79, playing a key role in India winning their second straight white-ball title after the T20 World Cup 2024 triumph.

During his time away from the national team, Iyer didn’t sit idle. He led Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL title and guided Mumbai to victories in the Syed Mushtaq Ali and Ranji Trophy tournaments. Those leadership roles and domestic runs paved his way back to the India squad.

Reflecting on his journey, Iyer said, “It was a rollercoaster ride and things looked in shambles earlier. But I told myself to set a routine, discipline myself, and play domestic cricket. Playing Ranji, Vijay Hazare, and Syed Mushtaq Ali helped me regain confidence and momentum heading into the Champions Trophy.”

Iyer was especially impressive against England, scoring 181 runs in three ODIs at an average above 60 and a strike rate of 123. He used that series to silence critics who had long questioned his ability to handle short-pitched bowling.

“Over the last two years, there were talks that I couldn’t play a certain shot. I wanted to prove everyone wrong,” Iyer said. “I worked hard to take on bowlers like Archer and Wood, putting myself in pressure situations. The more you practice those shots, the more confident you get.”

Explaining his mindset during the Champions Trophy, Iyer added,

“At the start, I played ball by ball, then took charge against the bowlers. We knew 250–300 was a winning total in Dubai, and my job was to get us there. With our bowling line-up, we were confident of defending or chasing any total.”

In 2025, Iyer has already amassed 424 runs in eight ODI innings at an average of 53 and a strike rate of 93.59, including four fifties. His next test begins on October 19, when India face Australia in a three-match ODI series.