Former Indian cricketer Ajit Agarkar feels that Shreyas Iyer’s place in the Men in Blue side is in danger due to his struggles against the short ball and also the rise of multiple options to replace him in the team.

When Iyer came into the Indian set-up after the Cricket World Cup 2019, many felt that India have found their designated batter at number four in limited overs. The young batter set the stage on fire and smashed runs consistently for the side. 

After he hit a century in New Zealand, batting at No.4, Iyer almost cemented his place in the side. But he suffered a shoulder injury in 2021 and was out of action for a few months. On his return he couldn’t quite grab his place back in the side and is struggling to socre runs consistenty as wel.

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In his absence, Suryakumar Yadav batted brilliantly and has been a regular feature in India’s white-ball setup. The rise of the Mumbaikar along with Iyer’s struggle to play the short balls has put his place in jeopardy. 

Speaking on Fan code, Ajit Agarkar said that Iyer’s place in the side is in danger and with Suryakumar also in the side, he might lose his spot. He also highlighted the right-hander’s struggle against short-ball. 

"Things have changed, haven't they? He is the one guy who is in danger of losing his spot a little bit. We know how well Suryakumar Yadav has played. Besides, there's another problem.. a couple of things that he needs to work on, including his short-ball issue," Ajit Agarkar said. 

Agarkar pointed out how Iyer left the short balls in the first ODI against West Indies. He said that he should leave those balls and after getting set he should try taking short balls. 

“One thing he did today (Friday) was that he left the (short) ball. You can only bowl two bouncers. So, you better get out of the way because that shot (pull) doesn't come naturally to him. Once he's set, maybe then he can play those deliveries. So, that's the one shot he shouldn't try too early. He has got enough ability," he said. 

The ongoing ODI series against West Indies will hold extreme importance for Iyer to make his case strong. He started well by hitting a half-century in the first game but he needs to maintain consistency in the remaining two games. 

(Fan code inputs)