Watch: Shreyas Iyer dispatches O’Rourke for trademark lofted six

During India’s current Champions Trophy match versus New Zealand in 2025, Shreyas Iyer’s second maximum was a sight to behold. The middle-order batsman blasted away a slower ball that Will O’Rourke had served up as a half-volley outside off stump with force.

There was a strong response to the 117.6 kph delivery. The difference in tempo was immediately apparent to Iyer, who did not hesitate to swing through the line and send the ball over the long-on barrier for a loud maximum. Thus, after 35 overs, India’s score was 164/4.

Another six by shreyas Iyer.#INDvNZ #ShreyasIyer pic.twitter.com/sr0QXcHiRJ

— Amit (@amit25joshi) March 2, 2025

However, in the tall pacer’s next over, O’Rourke hit Shreyas Iyer with a short delivery.

Compared to the previously mentioned ball that traveled the distance, the one that dismissed Iyer was far faster and more accurately directed. After being hurried into the shot, Iyer spliced the ball to Will Young, who ran back from mid-wicket to complete the catch.

India got off to a bad start earlier in the day. Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Rohit Sharma all left cheaply, causing the top order to collapse. India, in dire need of a rebuild, finished the powerplay with a score of 37/3, which was their joint-lowest score in the prestigious ODI event.

Semifinal matchups will be decided by the outcome of the current match.

It’s interesting to note that the victor of the India-New Zealand match will lead their group. Additionally, Australia will be played by the winning team. Conversely, South Africa will face the team that finishes second on the day.

Australia and South Africa placed first and second in Group B, respectively. Australia advanced to the playoffs despite only winning once, while the Proteas won their matches against England and Afghanistan. With the exception of their campaign opener against England, Australia’s two games were canceled because to the constant rain.