Excessive homework often has detrimental effects, as is currently the case with Indian batter Shreyas Iyer. Experts on Tuesday engaged in intense practice sessions, specifically focusing on short-pitched deliveries. During the second session, even Rahul Dravid joined in as a throw-down specialist to assist Shreyas Iyer for a while. Batsmen commonly struggle with short-pitched deliveries, and repeated practice can increase their readiness to face them. However, this may lead to batsmen becoming better at reading the bowler’s intentions for short-pitched deliveries, potentially dissuading bowlers from using this tactic, even if it’s their strength. In a match against England, Shreyas Iyer faced a situation where Chris Woakes deceived him with a delivery that appeared short-pitched but was, in fact, a good-length ball. Expecting a pull shot, Shreyas mistimed it and got caught at mid-on.
Iyer is known for his proficiency off the front foot, but fast bowlers aim to push him onto the back foot with short-pitched deliveries.
Shreyas often tries to pull these deliveries while on the front foot, resulting in mistimed shots that find the upper part of the bat and lead to catches at mid-on or mid-wicket.
When Shreyas attempts a pull shot from the front foot against fast bowlers, his bat swing lacks the speed and power necessary. This results in less force behind his shots and frequent misses of the sweet spot, making it challenging to clear the boundary. It’s worth noting that many seasoned cricketers have faced similar challenges. Sourav Ganguly, for instance, refined his technique to overcome shot issues, while Sachin Tendulkar made strategic adjustments to improve his performance. Now, Shreyas Iyer is in a phase of learning and adaptation. In the upcoming match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Shreyas Iyer will face the formidable trio of Dushmanta Chameera, Kasun Rajita, and Madushanka, who possess remarkable pace.
