Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer has reaffirmed his preference for the No. 4 batting position in ODIs, stating that he feels most comfortable and effective in the middle order. His remarks come as discussions around India’s batting lineup continue, with the No. 4 spot historically being a crucial but debated position in the team.

Thriving in the Middle Order

Speaking about his role in the Indian team, Iyer emphasized that the middle-order demands stability and adaptability. He enjoys playing in pressure situations, anchoring the innings when needed, and accelerating when the situation demands.

"I love batting at No. 4. It gives me the time to settle in and then play my natural game. I thrive in situations where I can control the pace of the innings," Iyer stated.

His Consistency at No. 4

Over the years, Iyer has delivered match-winning performances for India in the middle order. His ability to rotate strike, counter spinners, and accelerate against pacers has made him a reliable option for India in ODIs. His record at No. 4 highlights his capability to build partnerships and finish innings strongly.

Challenges and Competition

Despite his preference for the No. 4 slot, competition within the Indian team remains intense. Players like KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rishabh Pant have also been considered for the role, making it a highly contested position. However, Iyer remains confident in his approach and is eager to cement his spot in the playing XI.

The Road Ahead

As India prepares for upcoming ICC tournaments, Iyer’s form and consistency in the middle order will be crucial. With his experience and composure, he remains a key asset for the team’s batting lineup. His ability to handle both spin and pace makes him an ideal choice for anchoring and accelerating the innings when needed.

With his commitment to the No. 4 role, Shreyas Iyer continues to make a strong case for himself as India's go-to middle-order batsman in ODIs. Fans and selectors alike will be watching closely as he looks to solidify his position in the team.