The Enigma of Shreyas Iyer: Why India’s Batting Star Was Snubbed for England Test Tour
Despite a sensational run across domestic tournaments and a stellar performance in white-ball cricket, Mumbai’s dynamic batter, Shreyas Iyer, would unequivocally not have secured a spot in India’s Test squad for the recent England tour. This candid assessment comes from former India opener and revered cricket commentator, Aakash Chopra, who weighed in on the swirling questions surrounding Iyer’s surprising omission.
The exclusion of the 30-year-old from the extensive 18-member squad announced in May sent ripples through the cricketing fraternity, prompting intense debate about his red-ball future at the international level. For many, it felt like a baffling decision, given his undeniable form.
Iyer’s Blistering Form: A Season of Triumph and Records
Shreyas Iyer’s recent track record paints a picture of a player at the peak of his powers. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), he spearheaded Punjab Kings to a remarkable runners-up finish, enjoying his finest season with the bat. He amassed a staggering 604 runs at an impressive average of over 50, coupled with an astonishing strike rate of 175.07, peppered with 39 sixes.
Beyond the T20 spectacle, Iyer’s red-ball prowess was equally evident. He had a highly productive Ranji Trophy season, showcasing his adaptability across formats. Furthermore, his leadership shone through as he guided Mumbai to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in December 2024, adding another feather to his cap.
In nine First-Class matches, including a triumph in the prestigious Irani Cup, Iyer aggregated a robust 699 runs, embellished with two centuries and three crucial half-centuries. Such numbers would typically scream for national recognition, yet for Iyer, it wasn’t enough to secure a Test comeback, especially after his last appearance for India during the 2024 home series against England.
The Fierce Competition: Why Even Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel Are Waiting
Aakash Chopra articulated the challenging reality facing Iyer. He highlighted that even his Mumbai teammate, Sarfaraz Khan, who is widely considered ahead in the Test pecking order due to his prolific First-Class record, missed out on a berth in England. Chopra insisted that Iyer must display patience, awaiting his ‘second wind’ in Test cricket.
Speaking on his popular YouTube channel, Chopra underscored the sheer depth of India’s batting talent. “There is no problem with the batting as such,” he stated, referring to the current Test squad’s strength. “But he has to wait for his chances; he won’t get a chance straight away right now. He would’ve never made it to the squad for the England tour. The remaining ones also haven’t had their chance.”
“If you think about it, Karun Nair has played just now. Sarfaraz Khan is not being given the chances. Dhruv Jurel is sitting outside. The players who are already there, if they aren’t only getting the chances, then how can Shreyas Iyer get a look in?” Chopra elaborated, painting a vivid picture of the intense competition for a coveted spot in the Indian Test XI.
He acknowledged Iyer’s remarkable domestic and white-ball achievements, reiterating, “I know he had a good first-class season. He had a good IPL, took Punjab Kings to the final. He did well in white-ball cricket, but his time will come. He will have to wait just a little bit.”
India’s Unstoppable Batting Lineup in England
The performance of India’s top-order and middle-order in the Headingley Test further validates the selectors’ current approach. Barring the returning Karun Nair, debutant Sai Sudharsan, and a somewhat wobbly lower-order, India’s frontline batters fired in unison. Vice-captain Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, skipper Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal all registered magnificent centuries, making it a historic occasion for India, the first time the team has tallied five individual centuries in a single Test innings.
This collective batting might leaves little immediate room for new entrants, regardless of their domestic form.
The Selector’s Verdict: No Room for Iyer Right Now
The chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, echoed a similar sentiment when addressing reporters in Mumbai during the squad announcement in late May. His message was clear and concise.
“Yes, Shreyas Iyer has played well in domestic cricket, but at the moment, there is no room for him on the Test Team,” Agarkar affirmed, confirming the challenging reality that talented players often face in a supremely competitive national setup like India’s.
For Shreyas Iyer, his incredible form might not yet translate into a Test call-up, but his sustained performances will undoubtedly keep him firmly in the selectors’ minds for future opportunities.
