Iyer's Test Debut Unlikely Amidst Stiff Competition, Claims Cricket Analyst

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

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

While Iyer emerged as India's highest run-scorer in their triumphant ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign and displayed exceptional form in both the IPL and the domestic red-ball season, Chopra suggests that the path to Test selection is currently blocked by other contenders.

"Shreyas Iyer won’t get a chance now. Many others haven’t gotten a chance either," Chopra stated on his YouTube channel. He emphasized the presence of other hopefuls, saying, "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, maintaining an average of 68.57 and a strike rate exceeding 90. Furthermore, he enjoyed his most successful IPL season to date, accumulating 604 runs in 17 matches and guiding Punjab Kings to their first final appearance in nine years.

Despite these achievements, Chopra believes that patience is key to securing 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 strong contender, continues to impress. 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.