Shreyas Iyer of India made a significant contribution by scoring 59 runs in the first ODI against England, showcasing a counter-attacking style that effectively dismantled the English bowling attack, which included Saqib Mahmood, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, and Brydon Carse. It was unexpected when he revealed post-match that he would not have participated in the series opener had it not been for Virat Kohli's injury.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh suggested that Shreyas's performance was influenced by a higher power, as he managed to deliver an outstanding innings under pressure, leading to a decisive victory for the home team.

Harbhajan commended Shreyas as a reliable player, emphasizing his strong self-belief, which he believes was crucial to his success, particularly when there were considerations to exclude him from the lineup. He speculated that the rationale behind such a decision might have been the preference for a right-left batting combination with Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

"The team management included him in the squad, but they faced a choice between him and Yashasvi Jaiswal for the opening position. Currently, it seems they have more faith in Yashasvi. Perhaps they are aiming for a right-left combination at the top of the order. This influenced their decision. If they had opted not to play Shreyas, it would likely have been to accommodate Yashasvi Jaiswal," Harbhajan Singh stated to Hindustan Times during the ILT20 event in Sharjah.

"Shreyas is a proven performer, having accumulated numerous runs in the World Cup. When a player consistently scores, they expect to receive opportunities. He views himself as the best, and it appears that even divine forces shared this sentiment. He achieved what others did not anticipate, and contrary to what was speculated about his exclusion, he delivered an innings that transformed the match. The 50 runs he scored significantly altered the game's dynamics."

'Rishabh Pant will get his chance'

The management has chosen KL Rahul as the wicketkeeper-batter for the first ODI. While Harbhajan Singh acknowledges Pant's talent, he supports the current decision to favor Rahul.

"Rishabh Pant is undoubtedly a talented player, but at this moment, the management appears to be leaning towards KL Rahul as the preferred wicketkeeper-batter. Consequently, Rishabh Pant will need to bide his time for his chance. Dhruv Jurel and Sanju Samson are also in contention. I sincerely hope that the selected team performs admirably. I wish for KL Rahul to excel. As for Rishabh Pant, he will ultimately find his place in the lineup, whether it is today or in the future," he remarked.

'Arshdeep Singh is a diamond'

Although Arshdeep Singh did not participate in the first ODI, Harbhajan believes that including a left-arm seamer in the squad is always advantageous. He commended Arshdeep's outstanding performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup and noted his increasing significance as the fast bowler approaches the milestone of 100 T20I wickets.

"I have previously stated that Arshdeep Singh is a remarkable talent. He is an exceptional bowler who can make an impact at any point in the game. He took 17-18 wickets during the T20 World Cup. Having a left-arm seamer in the squad is highly beneficial, as it provides a different bowling option. He possesses all the skills necessary to be an outstanding bowler for India," Harbhajan stated.

Finally, Harbhajan believes that the ILT20 would greatly benefit from the inclusion of Indian cricketers, allowing them to display their skills in the UAE-based T20 league. "If Indian players participate, it would be a significant enhancement," he commented.

"This marks the third season of the tournament. Local players are gaining valuable experience. It is a commendable initiative. The league is expanding, and there is considerable potential, especially given the large Asian and Indian population in the region."

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