Watch: Venkatesh Iyer's stellar bowling secures Lancashire's thrilling One Day Cup win

India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer played a pivotal role in Lancashire’s nail-biting victory against Worcestershire in the One Day Cup on August 14 at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester. In a tense finish, Iyer’s late heroics with the ball secured a three-run win for Lancashire, marking a crucial moment in their campaign.

Iyer's decisive 49th over

With Worcestershire needing just 15 runs to win and two wickets in hand, Iyer was entrusted with the 49th over. The pressure was on after Tom Hinley had smashed Will Williams for a six and a four in the previous over, leaving Worcestershire on the brink of victory. Iyer’s over didn’t start well, with the first two balls leaking eight runs through leg byes and byes. A couple of singles and two wides reduced the equation to just four runs needed off eight balls, but Iyer held his nerve. He dismissed Hinley on the penultimate ball, as the batter mistimed a short delivery straight to Harry Singh at deep mid-wicket. On the last ball, Iyer trapped Harry Darley LBW to seal the win, as Worcestershire were bowled out for 234.

3️⃣ runs required to win.

2️⃣ wickets needed…

Over to you, @venkateshiyer! 😍

🌹 #RedRoseTogether https://t.co/CfuDnk44Oo pic.twitter.com/gNTFO2M6ml

— Lancashire Cricket (@lancscricket) August 14, 2024

VENKYYYY WINS IT!!! 😍😍😍

Darley pinned LBW by @venkateshiyer!

Rapids 234 all out!

🌹 #RedRoseTogether pic.twitter.com/Y55npAw3rL

— Lancashire Cricket (@lancscricket) August 14, 2024

Iyer's all-round contribution

Earlier in the match, Iyer contributed with the bat, scoring 25 runs off 42 balls. His all-round performance was crucial in Lancashire’s thrilling victory, although his overall stint with the team has been underwhelming. Since joining Lancashire in July, Iyer has scored just 68 runs from five innings at an average of 13.60 and a strike rate of 80.

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With the ball, he has taken three wickets from four innings at an average of 36.66 and an economy rate of 6.11, with his best figures being 2/38. Despite the win, Lancashire still sit at the bottom of Group A, with two wins from eight matches. Iyer is expected to return to India soon to participate in the Duleep Trophy as part of his preparations for national duty.