We just wanted to live up to our expectations – Shreyas Iyer
Team India pulled off a stunning show with the ball, securing a thrilling victory in Tauranga to seize the ODI series by 3-1. India had a change of captaincy for the last two games as Shreyas Iyer took over in place of Shubman Gill, who joined the Indian Test side to prepare for the upcoming series against the Kiwis.
Iyer scored 22 from just 26 balls, steadying the Indian innings initially after they lost their top-order cheaply. Talking at the post-match presentation after India’s 22-run, Iyer opened up on winning the T20I and the ODI series against New Zealand. He also highlighted how the Men in Blue adapted well to the conditions in New Zealand.
Shedding light on India’s double-series win in New Zealand, Iyer said, “Ecstatic. I think both the series T20 and ODI coming over here, we were provided with different conditions. The weather kept changing. Faced with a lot of challenges and coming out triumphs, I think it’s a great achievement. And today we had that certain kind of belief even though we didn’t get that many runs in batting. But still we were hoping that we can change the game at any point of time. And I’m glad that every individual thought in the same direction and we were able to execute that.”
Explaining how well the Men in Blue adapted to the conditions, Iyer added, “Definitely if you see the whole series, it wasn’t a series for batsmen. The way the bowlers bowled, they stood up to the occasion and definitely were confident enough to see to it that they would get the team through irrespective of the conditions. I think that’s the mindset of all the players that we need and the character each and every individual possesses. It’s top notch.”
Reflecting on India’s bowling depth, Iyer stated, “Yes, absolutely. It becomes at some point of time becomes challenging for the players when there’s chopping and changing. They need to acclimatize to the condition and adapt as you mentioned earlier. But we didn’t want to give any excuse. We just wanted to live up to our expectations and every individual were just willing to come out here and give their best.”
He concluded by appreciating the support that he received in New Zealand, stating, “Absolutely, we’ve been seeing them coming in numbers and the way they have supported irrespective of the results, you know. It went in our way sometimes, it went in New Zealand’s way. They were supporting both the teams, which is very heartening to see. And this is the kind of support we need. And also the sport is growing to a different level. We know what kind of inspiration we get from them. So thanks a lot for the love and support to each and every one who have been here.”
