"Would Like To Thank Myself": 'Lonely' Shreyas Iyer On Triumphant ODI Return

Doubts can creep in when one has to deal with frequent injuries but Shreyas Iyer says it was his unflinching belief in his abilities that helped him to bounce back from a lonely phase. The Asia Cup that India won marked Iyer's comeback from a back surgery after six months but a back spasm in the middle of the tournament meant he only got to bat once over the course of two weeks. However, the 14 off nine balls he made in India's opener against Pakistan gave him a lot of confidence as he desperately waited for another opportunity.

The chance finally came in Mohali last week but he got run out. Facing competition for a spot in India's middle-order for the World Cup, Iyer finally delivered under pressure in the second ODI against Australia on Sunday.

"I was desperate to come back and come back strong. I was waiting to convert the starts which I got in the previous games. Today I got the opportunity, I am grateful," said Iyer after a match-winning 105 off 90 balls.

"To be honest I was not doubting my abilities because I knew I was batting brilliantly in the nets, also the start I got against Pakistan. Just a matter of one innings and I knew it was around the corner, thankfully I was able to execute," he added.

Iyer was fully aware of the competition he was up against but despite being in helpless situation that saw him miss the majority of the Asia Cup, he managed to stay calm.

"It was definitely a roller coaster ride. I would like to thank myself to be honest. For believing in my abilities and mindset at that point of time. I was feeling a bit lonely but thanks to my physios, my trainers, my family they backed me, grateful to have them around.

"I keep telling myself competition is against me. It is about mindset that I