Iyer Excited For Asian Games Debut, Says Interaction With India’s Top Athletes Will Be Special

For Shreyas Iyer, the Asian Games will be about more than cricket. India’s T20I captain is looking forward to experiencing his first multi-sport event and interacting with athletes from disciplines such as hockey, while gaining an insight into the mindset that drives them at the highest level.

Cricket’s inclusion in the Asian Games will give Iyer and his teammates an opportunity to share the same environment with athletes who compete in a wide range of sports. The Indian team will also play Japan in a historic T20I before beginning its Asian Games campaign on September 28.

“Definitely an exciting time for me and also for the team because it is going to be my first time,” Iyer said. He added that some members of the squad already have Asian Games experience, which could help the newcomers adjust to the event.

Iyer is particularly keen on building a connection with India’s hockey players and other athletes who will be part of the Games.

“Our first match we are going to play against Japan. So, that is going to be a historic one. And sharing relationship with the hockey players and other Olympic players who would be there, athletes who would be there along with us, definitely would be a great interaction,” he said.

The 31-year-old also hopes to watch some of the other events and cheer for his fellow Indians. For him, understanding how athletes prepare mentally for elite competition could be as valuable as the competition itself.

“I would be eagerly waiting to go there and interact with them and know what their mindset is. Probably go to one of the games and cheer for them as well,” Iyer said.

Despite the excitement surrounding the Asian Games, Iyer is keeping his focus firmly on the immediate task. Afghanistan are India’s first opponents, giving the team a high-quality contest before the multi-sport event.

“We are thinking about the first game. We know that Afghanistan is a nice team and our preparation has also been promising,” he said, adding that India has a good opportunity to test itself against a strong side before the Asian Games.