East India all-rounder Irfan Pathan Has chosen the batting order of Shreyas Iyer In the upcoming five-match T20 series against India new zealandStarting from 21st January in Nagpur. Pathan believes that Iyer’s superior game against fast bowling, coupled with his long-established dominance against spin, makes him the ideal candidate for the role in the shortest format.
Shreyas Iyer has been included in the team in place of Tilak Verma.
After this, Iyer has been included in the Indian team for the first three T20 matches. Tilak Verma Was out of the first three T20 matches due to abdominal surgery. With the team management looking for stability at the top of the order, Iyer’s experience and versatility have come into focus ahead of the clash against the Black Caps.
Currently leading the Punjab Kings in domestic and franchise cricket, Iyer has returned to the T20I setup with a point to prove, especially after working extensively on areas that were once considered weaknesses in his game.
Irfan Pathan chooses batting position for Iyer in T20 series against New Zealand
Speaking during the discussion on Robin UthappaTaking to his YouTube channel, Pathan clarified that he sees no debate on Iyer’s batting position. According to him, the right-handed batsman fits the bill perfectly at number three, a role that demands both adaptability and authority.
Pathan said that Iyer has always been a strong player of spin bowling, with the ability to use his feet, find gaps and clear the infield when needed. However, what has impressed him most in recent times is Iyer’s calmness and control against high-quality fast bowling.
“Shreyas is at number three, there is no doubt about that. Shreyas has the ability to play spin very well. That’s one thing. He can play big shots, bowl while standing, and he can also rotate the ball well. But anyone who saw him in the last IPL, I think he was playing the fast bowlers very well. I remember he played a shot against Bumrah on a yorker ball.” “Pathan said.”
Also read: Irfan Pathan told why Axar Patel is ahead of Ravindra Jadeja in ODI?
Pathan praised Iyer’s performance in IPL
Pathan mentioned Iyer’s performance indian premier league 2025Where the batsman continuously handled the fast bowlers with confidence. One special moment that stood out was the striking of a four Jasprit Bumrah during a match between Mumbai Indians And Punjab.
Recalling the shot, Pathan highlighted how Iyer picked up Bumrah’s yorker late and guided it through the third-man region for four runs. He said that for most batsmen, simply avoiding Bumrah’s yorkers is a challenge, but Iyer’s ability to bowl the ball shows his composure and awareness.
According to Pathan, Iyer’s understanding of field placement and his patience at the crease indicate a batsman who knows where his scoring options lie, even against the best.
“It was the Mumbai vs Punjab match. Bumrah bowled a yorker and he hit it through the off side for four runs. I mean, avoiding Bumrah’s yorkers is a tough task in itself. This guy is really taking his time, playing the ball late, and placing the ball where he wants, especially towards third man. He knows where the fielders are and is making scoring shots.” Added Pathan.
Also read: Irfan Pathan chosen Team India’s ‘glue’ for T20 World Cup 2026
