The Unsung Hero of the Champions Trophy: Kaif praises Indian star's role despite not winning Man of the Match

Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif was thoroughly impressed with Iyer's sensational comeback, showcasing consistent performances despite his absence from the Test and T20I squads in recent months.

"I was surprised by his form. He neither plays Tests, nor is he in the T20I squad. He plays only ODIs for India. So you are not there in the team continuously. You have to straightaway play for India after playing in the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai, and in a zone where you have to attack, hit boundaries, and play your natural game," Kaif told Star Sports.

The 30-year-old was India's leading run-getter in the Champions Trophy, with 243 runs in five matches. His 48-run knock in the final was pivotal for India to secure another ICC title as he stabilised the innings when the Men in Blue lost Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in quick succession.

‘I admire Shreyas Iyer because many players came…’: Mohammad Kaif

Kaif expressed his admiration for Iyer for owning the number 4 position where India were struggling to get the right fit for the past few years. The former cricketer also pointed out that Iyer played an unsung role in the tournament, as he didn't receive any Player of the Match award but finished second highest run-getter.

"I admire this batter because many players came and went at the No. 4 position. We weren't getting players for the No. 4 position. This guy came and made his place, and plays impactful knocks. He is this tournament's second-highest run-getter, but he didn't get a single Man of the Match," the former India batter added.

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