Shreyas Iyer (BCCI Photo) NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer has revealed how relentless criticism of his struggles against short-pitched deliveries became the driving force behind a dramatic transformation in his batting approach during the IPL 2026 season.In an interview with JioStar, Iyer admitted that doubts about his ability to handle the short ball “triggered” a shift in both mindset and preparation. “People said I would never solve my short ball problem. That got me going. I wanted to prove them wrong by performing well. So I worked hard on it,” he said.
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Virat Kohli opens his childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma’s new academyGo Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SIGN UP NOW!The 31-year-old revealed that his short-game bowling approach has undergone a complete overhaul. “Earlier I used to just take a single or try to keep the ball down. But now my mindset has changed. If I see a short ball in my zone, I hit it for a six,” explained Iyer, underscoring a more aggressive and determined intent.This shift has been evident in Punjab’s dominant run this season, with Iyer’s improved control over pace playing a key role in the team’s unbeaten run. The side recently made history by chasing down 265 against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium – the highest successful chase in T20 history.Rigorous practice and mental resetIyer credited mentors like Pravin Amre and Abhishek Nayar for helping him hone his technique, but stressed that hard work in the nets made the biggest difference.“During my batting practice, I try to play around 50 overs and face more than 300 balls. That helps me understand what works for me,” he said, adding that facing real bowlers instead of relying on pitching alone has improved his clarity. “The more I face pitchers, the clearer my movement becomes. I focus on creating a rhythm.”Drawing inspiration from greats like AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Iyer emphasized the importance of balance and timing. “Right before the pitcher pitches, I try to get into my position quickly. That creates a flow,” he noted.“I have to prove them wrong”In addition to technique, Iyer emphasized the role of mental toughness in overcoming setbacks and criticism. “I have people around me who say you can’t do it. I hate to hear that… I decided I had to prove them wrong,” he said.Reflecting on his comeback from injury, he added: “Some people said I would never be the same. I asked myself, why can’t I be? It’s the way you frame your thinking that matters.”
