Shreyas Iyer's Test Debut on Hold: Analyst Cites Competition for Spots

Shreyas Iyer's Test Debut Delayed, Says Cricket Analyst

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has tempered expectations regarding Shreyas Iyer's inclusion in the Indian Test squad. Despite his impressive performances across various formats in recent months, Chopra suggests Iyer may have to wait his turn.

Shreyas Iyer (AP Photo)

Iyer's contributions to India's ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory, coupled with a strong IPL season and domestic red-ball performance, have fueled speculation about a potential Test call-up. However, Chopra believes several other players are ahead of him in the pecking order.

"Shreyas Iyer won’t get a chance now. Many others haven’t gotten a chance either," Chopra stated on his YouTube channel. He highlighted the cases of Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel, suggesting that Iyer needs to surpass these players in the waiting line before being considered for selection.

Iyer's recent form is undeniable. He amassed 480 runs in just seven innings during the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy, boasting an average of 68.57 and a strike rate exceeding 90. His stellar IPL season saw him score 604 runs in 17 matches, leading Punjab Kings to their first final in nine years.

Despite these accomplishments, Chopra emphasized the importance of patience for red-ball opportunities. "I know he had a good first-class season. He had a good IPL, took Punjab Kings to the final, did well in white-ball cricket — but his time will come in Tests. He will have to wait just a little bit."

Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan, another hopeful, continues to make a strong case for selection. Following three fifties and a 150 in six Tests, he scored 92 for India A against England Lions and followed it up with a century in the intra-squad match ahead of the England series.