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

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

Former Indian opener 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 awaits his opportunity to break into the Test side.

While Iyer was a standout performer in India's ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory and enjoyed a successful run in both the IPL and the domestic red-ball season, Chopra believes he faces stiff competition for a Test spot.

"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, including Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel. "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, boasting an average of 68.57 and a strike rate exceeding 90. This was followed by a career-best IPL season where he scored 604 runs in 17 matches and captained 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, another contender for a Test spot, continues to impress with his performances. Following three fifties and a 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.