Knew he would score big, says Shreyas Iyer's father

After Shreyas Iyer's fluent 43-ball 61 on Day One of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy clash against Punjab on Thursday, his father Santosh sent him a WhatsApp message, urging him to convert it into a big score. Shreyas replied back with two thumbs up emoticons.

Ranji Trophy: Double centurion Shreyas Iyer guides Mumbai to huge lead over Punjab

Mumbai's Shreyas Iyer celebrates his double ton against Punjab yesterday. Pic/Suresh KK

"I didn't know what to make of it, but I knew he would go for a big one," said the proud father, who just managed to reach the Wankhede Stadium in time to witness his son's maiden first-class double ton.

Iyer Sr raced to the stadium after he was informed by Shreyas' friends that "he is getting impatient to reach a double ton."

Iyer senior arrived at the ground when Shreyas was in his 180s. His heart skipped a beat when Shreyas was dropped by Barinder Singh Sran at mid-wicket on 195.

Iyer, who is a property consultant, had a couple of meetings scheduled but wanted to see his son score the double ton. "I didn't want to miss his maiden double century," he said.

When he reached 200, Shreyas waved his bat to his father and friends seated in the MCA Pavilion. And when he returned to the pavilion, Iyer Jr waved to his father. This time the thumbs ups were not over WhatsApp. Mission accomplished.