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'When people doubt someone like Shreyas Iyer, it's pretty laughable' – Ambati Rayudu's huge remark on India captain

Former cricketer Ambati Rayudu strongly defended India skipper Shreyas Iyer during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on November 1, 2026, dismissing recent criticism as absurd while speaking on a broadcast. During the match at Seddon Park in Hamilton, where the visiting side was sent in to bat after losing the coin toss, Iyer proved his value with a rapid fifty.

The Indian captain smashed 50 runs off 23 balls, featuring a blistering 22-ball half-century that set a new milestone for the fastest T20I fifty by an Indian leader against the Black Caps. This aggressive knock fueled a 93-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, who contributed 61 from 32 deliveries, guiding the team to a total of 191 for 8.

Former player Murali Kartik also analyzed the skipper's technical stance and adjustments against short deliveries.

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