Pujara Says Iyer Century Boosts India Against West Indies

India's batting recovery and a promising bowling debut highlighted their eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in Lucknow, as captain Shreyas Iyer struck his maiden T20I century. Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara praised Iyer's performance, which helped the reigning T20 World Cup champions take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

At BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, India had slipped to 35/2 when Iyer arrived at the crease. According to the match details reported by NDTV Sports, he finished unbeaten on 102 from 43 balls, guiding India to victory with eight wickets and 32 balls remaining.

Pujara said the century arrived at an important point for Iyer, who had been seeking improved form. He also highlighted the captain's composure, shot selection, and ability to identify favorable matchups against opposing bowlers.

"It came at the right time because he was looking for that form. There were never any questions regarding his batting because, when it comes to the T20 format, I think Shreyas is an exceptional cricketer, so there is no doubt about his quality. But the kind of flow he was in during the innings in Lucknow, the moment he walked in, he was timing the ball well and clearing the infield during the powerplay.

Once he got set, he started playing big shots and hitting big sixes. So, he was in complete control. He knew which bowler he had to target.

So yes, this innings came at the right time because he needed this knock. When you are leading the team, you lead by example, and this is the example you want to set in front of the young players," Pujara told JioHotstar.

Pujara also praised Naman Dhir, whose T20I debut featured an effective bowling performance. Dhir claimed 3-31, making him India's most economical bowler in the match, according to the report.

The former India batter credited Dhir's adaptability, particularly his willingness to change his line, length, and pace after conceding a six. Pujara said the debutant demonstrated the tactical awareness needed to contribute with the ball despite being primarily a batting all-rounder.

"It was good to see that he was using his cricketing intelligence. He picked up three wickets, but before that he got hit for a six, so he was trying to change his line, he was trying to change his length and was varying his pace really well. So, yes, you're a part-timer, but you can't bowl just the usual stuff; you have to be a little more than that, and Naman Dhir showed that he's a quality bowler," Pujara added.

Pujara cautioned that Dhir's role would depend on match conditions and team requirements. He said the young player could develop further as he gains experience, particularly when bowling on flatter pitches that offer less assistance.

"You can't expect him to bowl four overs in each and every game, but he's definitely improving and is showing that he can be a decent bowler in the T20 format. But the performance against the West Indies in the first game was exceptional. There was some assistance from the pitch in Lucknow, so he will also have to learn the art of bowling on a flat pitch. But that will come with experience, and it was a good start for him," Pujara concluded.