Shreyas Iyer's Test Debut Faces Delay Amidst Intense Competition: Expert Analysis

Shreyas Iyer's Test Debut on Hold, Says Former India Opener

Former India opener Aakash Chopra has tempered expectations regarding Shreyas Iyer's inclusion in the Indian Test squad, despite the player's impressive performances across formats recently.

Shreyas Iyer's wait for a Test call-up continues despite strong performances.

While Iyer shone as India's highest run-scorer in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory and enjoyed a successful IPL and domestic red-ball season, Chopra believes the competition for Test spots is fierce.

"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 backlog of players awaiting their opportunity. "If you think about it, Karun Nair has only just gotten his chance. Sarfaraz Khan hasn’t been given a shot. Dhruv Jurel is waiting on the sidelines. If he cannot even get among those who are in the waiting line, then how can he be considered for selection?"

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 and led Punjab Kings to their first final in nine years.

Chopra emphasized the need for 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 compelling case for selection. He followed three fifties and a score of 150 in six Tests with 92 for India A against England Lions, and a century in the intra-squad match preceding the England series.