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Indian middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer has been left out of India's Test team for the rest of the series against England, a decision that is both unexpected and tactically crucial. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed the move, which emphasizes the selection committee's increasing focus on match fitness and current form rather than just reputation.
It is generally accepted that Iyer's protracted lean patch in red-ball cricket was the reason for his exclusion. Iyer returned scores of 35, 13, 27, and 29 in the opening two Tests of the current England series, which did not result in innings that determined the outcome of the match. His run of 13 straight Test innings without a half-century was prolonged by these appearances, which is concerning for a man who is supposed to spearhead the middle order.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, remarked that Iyer looked "uncomfortable and troubled" at the crease. "His struggles, especially against the short ball, are well documented now. He'll need to work on some technical aspects if he wants to return to the red-ball setup," Chopra said.
Initially, there was speculation that Iyer's back stiffness and groin discomfort might have ruled him out. However, according to BCCI sources, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) had cleared him as fit and available for selection. This raised further questions when his name was missing from the squad for the final three Tests.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed these concerns during a press interaction. "There's nothing wrong with Shreyas' fitness. We are looking at players who are in form and contributing consistently. At the moment, there just isn't room for him," Agarkar said.
The decision has divided opinion among fans and former cricketers. Some supporters took to social media to argue that Iyer's aggregate of 104 runs in the first two Tests was higher than several others retained in the squad. They questioned the consistency of the selection process.
However, many backed the call. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar stated, "The message is clear-if you don't perform, you risk being dropped. Shreyas has to now decide whether he wants to focus on Tests or limited-overs formats. His defensive technique and ability to survive tough phases need serious work."
Despite the setback, Iyer continues to remain a vital figure in India's white-ball plans. Recently, he played a captain's knock in the IPL, scoring a fluent 53 off 34 balls for the Kolkata Knight Riders. Although there is no denying his skill in the shorter forms, his hopes of playing in the Tests have temporarily been dashed.
Iyer's next task will be to get back into domestic red-ball cricket, gain experience, and improve his technique.he may be given oportunity considering India's busy Test schedule for the upcoming year, which includes international trips but only if he can present a strong argument.
Shreyas Iyer's expulsion from the Indian Test team indicates that the team's management is trying to foster high performance culture. Despite its seeming severity, the verdict highlights the non-negotiable standards expected at the global level. Even though Iyer is only thirty years old, he still has time, but coming back will require resolution, reevaluation, and outcomes.
