The partnership between Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer has been incredibly beneficial for India leading up to the Champions Trophy 2025 final. Virat Kohli has been in exceptional form, demonstrated by his unbeaten century against Pakistan and 84 runs in the semi-final against Australia. Similarly, Shreyas Iyer has adapted well to the slower pitches in Dubai and is considered one of the top middle-order batsmen in the tournament. As India prepares to face New Zealand in the final on Saturday, Kohli and Iyer are expected to be crucial for Rohit Sharma’s team.
Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin praised Shreyas Iyer and believes he will be the game-changer for the team in the final.
‘In my opinion, Shreyas Iyer will be the game-changer, mainly due to his recent form. He had an outstanding 2023 World Cup and has performed well against New Zealand, including at Wankhede in Mumbai. In this tournament as well, he has been impressive and has improved his play against short balls. Despite getting out in the last match, it shouldn’t be a concern. I believe Shreyas Iyer’s greatest strength is his desire to improve in areas where he is not as strong,’ Ashwin stated on his Hindi YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat’.
Ashwin further explained why India head coach Gautam Gambhir values Iyer highly, emphasizing how Iyer has relieved pressure from Virat Kohli.
‘Shreyas Iyer’s playing style benefits Virat Kohli. Gauti was asked in a press conference about his conversation with Virat regarding getting out to a leg-spinner. Gauti responded excellently, noting Virat has played 300 games and occasional dismissals are normal. More importantly, Virat Kohli can play his natural game because Shreyas Iyer is effectively handling spin bowling.’
‘This creates a dilemma for opposing captains. When Virat and Shreyas form a partnership, captains can’t rely on spin to restrict them. Shreyas alleviates pressure on Virat. This middle-order pair has become formidable. Shreyas Iyer contributes to Virat’s success, and Virat also plays a role in Shreyas’s success. This is what partnership in cricket is all about,’ Ashwin added.
