Shreyas Iyer's Test Debut on Hold: Former India Opener Suggests Waiting Game

Shreyas Iyer's Test Debut Delayed? Former Cricketer Weighs In

Despite a string of impressive performances across various formats, Shreyas Iyer may have to wait longer for a Test call-up, according to former India opener Aakash Chopra.

While Iyer shone in India's ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory and displayed remarkable form in both the IPL and domestic red-ball season, Chopra suggests that several other 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, emphasizing the competition for spots in the Test squad. He pointed out that players like Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel are also waiting for their opportunities. "If he cannot even get among those who are in the waiting line, then how can he be considered for selection?"

Iyer's recent statistics speak volumes about his capabilities. In the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy, he amassed 480 runs in just seven innings, boasting an average of 68.57 and a strike rate exceeding 90. His stellar IPL season followed, where he scored 604 runs in 17 matches and captained Punjab Kings to their first final in nine years.

Chopra acknowledged Iyer's strong performances but reiterated the need for patience regarding Test selection. "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 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 ahead of the England series.