Iyer's Test Debut Delayed: Formidable Domestic and IPL Performances Not Enough, Says Analyst

Iyer's Test Debut on Hold, Claims Cricket Analyst

Despite Shreyas Iyer's impressive performances across all formats of the game in recent months, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra suggests that a Test call-up may not be imminent.

Shreyas Iyer (AP Photo)

While Iyer shone as India's leading run-scorer in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory and enjoyed a successful IPL and domestic red-ball season, Chopra believes that several other players are ahead of him in the pecking order for Test selection.

"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 prolonged wait for players like Karun Nair, the unfulfilled potential of Sarfaraz Khan, and the presence of Dhruv Jurel waiting for his opportunity.

Iyer's recent form has been remarkable. He amassed 480 runs in just seven Ranji Trophy innings in 2024–25, 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, captaining Punjab Kings to their first final appearance in nine years.

Chopra emphasized that patience is key to earning 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 remains a strong contender for a Test spot. He reinforced his case with a score of 92 for India A against England Lions, adding to his prior record of three fifties and a 150 in six Tests. He further solidified his claim with a century in an intra-squad match leading up to the England series.