Iyer's Test Debut Delayed: Cricket Analyst Cites Competition Despite Strong Form

Iyer's Test Debut on Hold, Claims Cricket Analyst

Former Indian opening batsman Aakash Chopra has tempered expectations regarding Shreyas Iyer's inclusion in the Indian Test squad, despite his impressive performances across all formats in recent months.

Shreyas Iyer (AP Photo)

While Iyer emerged as India's highest run-scorer in their triumphant ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign and enjoyed a successful run in both the IPL and domestic red-ball circuit, Chopra suggests that numerous players are ahead of him in the Test selection 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 emphasized the existing competition, mentioning players like Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel who are also vying for a spot. "If he cannot even get among those who are in the waiting line, then how can he be considered for selection?" he questioned.

Iyer's recent form has been remarkable. He amassed 480 runs in just seven innings during the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy season, boasting an average of 68.57 and a strike rate exceeding 90. This was followed by a stellar IPL season where he scored 604 runs in 17 matches, leading Punjab Kings to their first final appearance in nine years.

Despite these achievements, Chopra insists that opportunities in red-ball cricket require patience. "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 strong contender, continues to make a case for himself. Following three half-centuries and a score of 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 leading up to the England series.