Shreyas Iyer's Test Debut Delayed: Former Cricketer Aakash Chopra Cites Competition

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 formats in recent months.

Shreyas Iyer (AP Photo)

While Iyer shone as India's highest scorer in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory and enjoyed a successful IPL and 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, mentioning 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?"

Iyer's recent form has been exceptional. 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 in nine years.

Chopra emphasized the need for patience regarding 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 continues to make a strong case for himself. Following three fifties and a 150 in six Tests, he scored 92 for India A against England Lions and then followed it up with a century in the intra-squad match prior to the England series.