Champions Trophy: India Could Have Sealed Win Against Pakistan Sooner, Says Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer's post-match interview following India's six-wicket win against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy indicates that he felt the team had the possibility to have ended the chase much earlier.

Though India won easily with over seven overs remaining, Iyer felt a more aggressive game plan would have sealed matters much sooner.

Though he started cautiously—making 12 from his first 28 balls—Iyer adjusted well to the situation, especially against Pakistan's most frugal bowler, legspinner Abrar Ahmed. He recognized Abrar's ability and stressed the need to rotate strike before picking up the pace later in the innings. His eventual 56 off 67 balls was instrumental in steadying India's pursuit.

Commentators such as Sanjay Manjrekar and Anil Kumble cited Iyer's enhanced technique, especially while playing against short-pitched bowling. How he could play fast bowlers without an overabundance of movement in the crease was regarded as a welcome change in his game, possibly due to his experience in domestic cricket.

Iyer also pointed out that the Dubai pitch was slow and favored spinners, and stroke play was challenging in the early stages. He emphasized the need to evaluate conditions first before going for big shots, instead of attempting to do so right away.

Overall, though India's win was comprehensive, Iyer's comments indicate a mindset of ongoing improvement and effectiveness in closing games.