Some venues just seem to bring out the best in you. For Shreyas Iyer, the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow has quickly become one of those special places. Fresh from leading India to Asian Games gold, the Punjab Kings captain produced another match-winning performance in India colours, smashing his maiden T20I century against the West Indies to guide India to a commanding eight-wicket victory in the first T20I.

Chasing 172, India were in a spot of bother at 35/2 after the early dismissals of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. Enter Sarpanch Saab. Walking in under pressure, Iyer took his time before shifting through the gears. He brought up his half-century from just 28 balls and then launched an all-out assault on the West Indies bowling attack. Sarpanch Saab's century arrived in spectacular fashion as he deposited Roston Chase over long-on, reaching the milestone in just 42 balls. He finished unbeaten on 102 off 43 balls, striking 10 fours and six sixes, before taking India over the line with 32 balls to spare.

It was a knock that showcased Iyer at his best composed when India needed stability, fearless when it was time to attack, and ultimately the difference-maker in a chase that India completed in just 14.4 overs.

There is something about Lucknow and Shreyas Iyer. Earlier this year, the Punjab Kings captain registered his maiden IPL century at the very same venue, scoring an unbeaten 101 off 51 balls against Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026. That knock helped Punjab Kings chase down the target and secure a seven-wicket victory. Now, just months later, Iyer has added another landmark to his Ekana story - his first T20I century, once again in a winning cause.

Two centuries. Two different teams. One special venue. And both times, Sarpanch Saab left the Ekana crowd with a performance to remember.