Shreyas Iyer, one of India’s most dynamic middle-order batsmen, has been a standout performer in white-ball cricket, particularly in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and One Day Internationals (ODIs). His aggressive strokeplay, ability to anchor innings, and flair for big shots made him a key figure in India’s 2023 World Cup campaign and the Champions Trophy victory in Dubai. However, as India prepares for the Test series against England starting June 20, 2025, Iyer finds himself excluded from the squad, with selectors favoring other players like Sarfaraz Khan and Karun Nair. The narrative around Iyer’s exclusion centers on the perception that his game is now “suited to the white-ball game,” raising questions about his red-ball credentials and the strategic direction of the Indian Test team.
Shreyas Iyer’s White-Ball Prowess
Iyer’s reputation as a white-ball specialist has been cemented over the years. His performances in the 2023 World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in India’s journey to the final, showcased his ability to dominate bowlers in high-pressure situations. His bold strokeplay and carefree batting approach were instrumental in India’s Champions Trophy triumph in Dubai, where he consistently delivered match-defining knocks. In the IPL, leading the Punjab Kings (PBKS), Iyer has been a consistent run-scorer, blending aggression with composure to guide his team through challenging chases and high-scoring encounters.
The selectors’ view, as reported by sources, is that Iyer’s current batting style aligns more closely with the demands of limited-overs cricket. His “new stance” and “carefree attitude” are seen as assets in the fast-paced, result-oriented formats of ODIs and T20Is, where quick scoring and adaptability are paramount. White-ball cricket rewards players who can take risks, accelerate innings, and capitalize on fielding restrictions—qualities Iyer has mastered. However, these same attributes have seemingly worked against him in the context of Test cricket, where patience, technique, and resilience are often prioritized.
The Red-Ball Conundrum
Test cricket demands a different skill set, one that requires batsmen to navigate long spells of disciplined bowling, adapt to varying pitch conditions, and build innings over extended periods. Iyer’s last Test appearance was in February 2024, over 15 months before the India vs England series. His absence from the longest format since then has raised concerns about his readiness for red-ball cricket. Despite a strong showing in the Ranji Trophy, where he has scored runs consistently for Mumbai, Iyer has been unable to convince selectors of his suitability for Test cricket.
One of the primary criticisms leveled against Iyer is his perceived weakness against the short ball. Reports circulating on X and other platforms suggest that the Indian team management believes Iyer struggles to handle bouncers and short-pitched deliveries, a tactic England’s pace attack, led by the likes of James Anderson and Mark Wood, is likely to exploit. This perception, whether entirely accurate or not, has contributed to his exclusion from both the senior Test squad and the India A team touring England in 2025. The selectors’ decision to prioritize players with stronger red-ball credentials, such as Sarfaraz Khan, who has been prolific in domestic cricket, underscores their focus on building a robust Test batting lineup.
The Impact of Retirements and Selection Dynamics
The retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have opened up spots in India’s Test batting order, making Iyer’s omission all the more surprising. Fans and analysts expected Iyer, with his experience and domestic performances, to be a frontrunner for selection. However, the emergence of younger players and the selectors’ preference for specialists in the red-ball format have shifted the pecking order. Karun Nair, who has a proven track record in Tests, including a triple century, and Sarfaraz Khan, with his hunger for runs in domestic cricket, have leapfrogged Iyer in the race for middle-order spots.
Additionally, there are indications of strategic disagreements within the Indian cricket setup. Posts on X have hinted at tensions between head coach Gautam Gambhir and certain players, including Iyer, regarding team selection and roles. While these claims remain speculative and lack concrete evidence, they reflect the sentiment among some fans that Iyer’s exclusion may not solely be a matter of form or technique but could involve broader team dynamics or preferences in leadership style.
Iyer’s Domestic Performances and the Case for Inclusion
Iyer’s supporters argue that his exclusion overlooks his contributions in domestic red-ball cricket. In the Ranji Trophy, Iyer has shown the ability to play long, gritty innings, demonstrating the temperament required for Test cricket. His leadership qualities, honed as captain of PBKS and previously Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), add further weight to his case. Iyer’s ability to perform under pressure in the IPL, coupled with his domestic runs, suggests he has the mental fortitude to succeed in Tests if given the opportunity.
Moreover, Iyer’s past Test performances, while not extensive, include notable contributions. His debut Test century against New Zealand in 2021 showcased his ability to anchor an innings, while his adaptability in challenging conditions abroad hints at untapped potential. Critics of his exclusion argue that the selectors’ focus on his supposed weakness against short-pitched bowling is an oversimplification, as many modern batsmen, including those in the current Test squad, have faced similar challenges.
The White-Ball Specialist Label: Fair or Limiting?
The label of being a “white-ball specialist” is both a compliment and a constraint for Iyer. While it acknowledges his excellence in ODIs and T20Is, it risks pigeonholing him as a one-dimensional player. The evolution of cricket, with its increasing overlap between formats, means that players like Iyer, who possess a wide range of shots and the ability to dominate spin and pace, can adapt to Test cricket with the right backing. The selectors’ reluctance to see him as a red-ball prospect may stem from a conservative approach, prioritizing players who fit the traditional mold of Test batsmen over those with a more modern, aggressive style.
This perception is not unique to Iyer. Players like Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh faced similar challenges in their careers, often being seen as white-ball dynamos but struggling to cement their places in Test cricket. Iyer, however, is still in his prime at 30, with time to refine his game and address any technical deficiencies. A focused stint in domestic red-ball cricket, coupled with opportunities in India A tours, could help him rebuild his case for Test selection.
The Road Ahead for Shreyas Iyer
As India gears up for the England series, Iyer’s immediate focus will likely remain on white-ball cricket, particularly the IPL and upcoming limited-overs internationals. His leadership in the IPL, where his team qualified for the 2025 playoffs, underscores his value as a captain and batsman in high-stakes environments. However, to break back into the Test setup, Iyer may need to address the concerns about his game, particularly his handling of short-pitched bowling, through targeted practice and consistent domestic performances.
The India A tour to England, which Iyer was omitted from, represents a missed opportunity to showcase his red-ball credentials. Future tours and domestic seasons will be critical for Iyer to prove that he can transcend the “white-ball specialist” tag. With the right support from coaches and selectors, and perhaps a shift in team strategy under Gautam Gambhir, Iyer could yet make a Test comeback.
Looking Forward
Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion from India’s Test plans against England in 2025 reflects a combination of strategic selection decisions, perceptions about his technical suitability, and the emergence of other contenders. While his white-ball exploits have earned him accolades, the selectors’ view that his game is tailored to shorter formats has limited his opportunities in Tests. For Iyer, the challenge lies in defying this narrative through consistent performances and technical adjustments. As Indian cricket navigates a transitional phase post-Kohli and Sharma, Iyer’s journey to reclaim a Test spot will be one to watch, with fans hoping to see his undeniable talent shine across all formats.
