‘They said I’d never fix it’: Shreyas Iyer reveals how short-ball criticism ‘triggered’ him
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer revealed that relentless criticism about his short-ball struggles fueled a dramatic batting transformation in IPL 2026. He admitted that doubts triggered a shift in mindset and preparation, leading him to aggressively attack short deliveries. This improved control against pace has been crucial to Punjab's unbeaten streak, including a record-breaking chase.
NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer has opened up on how relentless criticism over his struggles against short-pitched deliveries became the driving force behind a dramatic transformation in his batting approach during the IPL 2026 season. Speaking on 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 fix my short-ball problem.
That triggered me. I wanted to prove them wrong by performing well. So, I worked hard on it,” he said.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! The 31-year-old revealed that his approach to short-pitched bowling has undergone a complete overhaul.
“Earlier, I would 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 am going to hit it for a six,” Iyer explained, underlining a more aggressive and decisive intent.