'As good as anyone': Ponting can't believe Iyer lacks to secure spot

Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has voiced his astonishment at Shreyas Iyer's lack of a permanent spot in India's white-ball cricket team, despite his strong performances, particularly his ability to dominate spin. Ricky Ponting, Shreyas Iyer, India cricket, white-ball cricket, Champions Trophy, ODI, batting form, middle-order, spin bowling, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Mumbai cricket, ICC Review, Punjab Kings, IPL, cricket analysis, cricket news, sports, cricket team, player selection.

Ponting's Surprise at Iyer's Inconsistent Role

Ponting has expressed surprise over Shreyas Iyer's inconsistent presence in India's white-ball cricket team, despite his exceptional performance and ability to handle spinners on slow subcontinental wickets. Iyer played a crucial role in India's journey to the 2023 World Cup final, accumulating 530 runs and finishing as the seventh-highest run-scorer. He recently demonstrated his skills with a quick 59 runs off 36 balls against England in the first ODI at Nagpur.

Iyer's Domestic and World Cup Performance

The 30-year-old has maintained his strong form in domestic cricket, scoring two centuries for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Ponting noted Iyer's terrific World Cup performance where he played beautifully in the middle-order. Ponting also mentioned that Iyer's domestic season has been brilliant, which coincided with what he has done since around the IPL auction time.

Ponting Predicts Iyer Will Thrive in Champions Trophy

Ponting believes Iyer will excel in the upcoming Champions Trophy, scheduled to begin in Pakistan and Dubai on February 19. Ponting feels that Iyer has the game that will stand up to the white-ball formats, especially in that part of the world. As the Punjab Kings coach, Ponting secured Iyer, adding that he is "delighted" to see the Mumbai man in PBKS as the franchise look to win their first title