I am very desperate to play the World Cup, says Shreyas Iyer

After a dramatic end to the eleventh edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Delhi Daredevils (DD), skipper Shreyas Iyer is all set to represent India in the coloured jersey and eyeing to make every opportunity count. Iyer is desperate and eager to represent Team India in the limited-overs format, he also touched upon former DD skipper Gautam Gambhir’s exclusion from the squad.

The 50-overs World Cup will be played in England next year and all the participating teams are taking the time this year to prepare for it. All the ODI matches that will be played are with an aim to finalize the combination and players that fit in the requirements of the team. Iyer’s career has been stop and start, he doesn’t own a spot in the team and often walks in when there’s an opening due to an injury or underperformance.

“I am desperate, very desperate. It is my dream to play World Cup and next year it’s going to be in England. This (England ODI series) is going to be a platform where I am keen to prove myself that I am up for the big level,” he said talking about the World Cup as quoted by DNA.

The Mumbai batsman considers the tour of England important since the WC 2019 will also be played in that part of the world.

“I have also proved in the past that I belong to the highest level. Yes, it is going to be a great opportunity for me in England since the World Cup is going to be held there next year. My preparations have been throughout the year, it’s just time to go out and execute there,” Iyer added.

Gambhir’s exclusion

Talking about Gambhir’s exclusion from DD playing eleven Shreyas said it was completely his own decision and he wanted to give youngster’s a run. Considering the amount of IPL experience he owns and the fact that he’s already won the title twice with Kolkata Knight Riders, the youngster would go up to the senior pro whenever he sought advice in matters of pitch assessment or team selection.

“See, we didn’t drop him. He decided to stay out. We all know that he gave up the captaincy. He said he wanted to give an opportunity to a young opener, thus, Prithvi (Shaw) came in and he started doing well. He (Gambhir) has won IPL twice, he has got tremendous experience,” Iyer highlighted the importance of Gambhir’s decision.

“So I would always go to him before the toss and ask him what he thinks about the wicket, how it will play and what does he think about the team etc. It wasn’t as if he was completely out of sight. He was involved in the team activities and discussions. And in taking certain decisions. He was there all the time. He backed me. I am grateful that he believed in me and supported me throughout the season,” he concluded.

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