New Delhi [India], February 7: Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has lauded Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer for their exceptional performances in India’s four-wicket victory against England in the first ODI. Manjrekar singled out Gill as a long-term asset for Indian cricket, while also praising Iyer’s “flawless” stroke play. He rated Iyer’s belligerent 59 off 36 balls as a 10/10 in terms of quality.
Both Gill and Iyer played pivotal roles in India’s chase of 249, especially after early setbacks left the team at 19/2. As the situation looked precarious, they formed a crucial 94-run partnership to stabilize the innings.
While Shubman Gill, with his solid technique, anchored the innings with a steady 87 from 96 balls, Shreyas Iyer attacked with aggression, taking the responsibility of scoring rapidly. His innings was a display of impeccable strokeplay, but was cut short when he was dismissed for 59 off 36 balls by Jacob Bethell.
Manjrekar was full of praise for Iyer, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “I know it’s just 58 for now, but that has to be Shreyas Iyer’s best innings! The flawless stroke play, range of shots, and the orthodox nature of his game made it a 10/10 in terms of quality.”
After Iyer’s departure, Gill stepped up to guide India closer to victory, combining both defensive and attacking shots in his knock. Manjrekar went on to describe Gill as a player with immense potential, saying, “We had a term in the team ‘Lambi race ka Ghoda’ for players who would be around for a long time in Indian cricket. That’s what Shubman Gill is!”
With a 4-wicket win in hand, India will now aim to extend their lead in the series as they head to Cuttack for the next ODI on Sunday.