In the opening episode of Kevin Pietersen's digital series "The Switch", titled "50 Balls to Score 100… (+1mph Every Ball)", Indian batsman Shreyas Iyer shattered the simulator's previous record by smashing 103* runs off just 22 deliveries. The episode, filmed with Pietersen in a high-tech simulator, features Iyer in a batting challenge. The bowling machine increases speed by 1 mph after each ball. AI on Google Search, powered by the Gemini family of models, positions virtual fielders based on real-time data. Iyer surpassed AB de Villiers' record. The trial begins at 51 mph. Iyer has 50 balls to score 100 runs, with the final ball at 100 mph.
Iyer hit the winning runs on the 22nd ball, with the machine at 72 mph. Pietersen used AI on Google Search, powered by the Gemini family of models, to generate a field map. The AI directed Pietersen to place fielders deep to guard the boundaries. Iyer's power still allowed him to score. Iyer and Pietersen discussed the evolution of batting. Iyer said a 200+ strike rate is a necessity for modern top-order batters. Modern bats and boundary dimensions require aggressive batting from the start.
Shreyas Iyer likely to replace Shubman Gill as ODI captain
Reports have emerged that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar are considering a major leadership overhaul following IPL 2026. Shreyas Iyer has reportedly emerged as a top contender to replace Shubman Gill as ODI captain and Suryakumar Yadav as T20I captain. The BCCI is aiming to move toward a single white-ball captain to streamline tactical strategy and team selection across both ODIs and T20Is.
The strategic shift would see Shubman Gill step down from his ODI leadership role and Suryakumar Yadav step down from the T20I captaincy. This restructuring is intended to provide leadership stability for the cycle building up to the 2027 ICC Men's ODI World Cup. Iyer's strong track record in domestic cricket and leading franchises in the Indian Premier League has made him the preferred choice. He notably led the Punjab Kings to the IPL 2025 finals.
