After Heroic 104 Off 51, Venkatesh Iyer Credits Maiden IPL Century To This Ex India Star

Having blasted a scintillating 104 in his "comeback" IPL following a long injury lay-off, Kolkata Knight Riders batter Venkatesh Iyer on Sunday dedicated his maiden century to assistant coach Abhishek Nayar. The 28-year-old from Indore was in good form during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in October last year before he tripped off a staircase and twisted his ankle, the injury cutting his domestic season short. He underwent a surgery and then spent many months at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to get back to his full fitness.

"IPL is a comeback tournament. I broke my left ankle six months back - the subtalar joint had come out - and it was a freakish accident. But I am fortunate to be under a system where the BCCI takes care of me," he told the media after the match.

"Everything was taken care of and I was at the NCA for four to five months. All the doctors and trainers were very cooperative and they helped me come out of this space.

"A lot of doctors told me that I would not be able to run as fast as I normally would. I would feel disappointed but I am happy that I am back on the field and doing what I love the most and contributing to the team." On Sunday, Iyer smacked nine sixes and six fours during his 51- ball knock but his effort was not enough as Mumbai Indians recorded a five-wicket win chasing 186 here at the Wankhede Stadium.

"One name worth mentioning here is Abhishek Nayar. He has worked with my batting day in and day out and not just batting, also my approach towards the game. I credit this century to him.

"As far as Chandu sir goes, I have been working with him for three years and I am happy that his tactics are now at an international level,” he said.

Iyer, who donned the Orange Cap on Sunday, said