Shreyas Iyer has long been one of the most promising middle-order batters of India, known for his calm presence under pressure and his ability to take on spin and pace with equal ease. However, injuries have been a recurring theme in his career, often halting his progress just as he seemed set for bigger achievements. Now, his battle with back issues has led him to make a significant decision that could shape the future of his career in the longer format.
According to a report in a leading publication, Shreyas Iyer has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he will be stepping away from red-ball cricket for the time being. The 29 years old cricketer who was recently appointed captain of the India A side for the series against Australia withdrew from the second unofficial Test in Lucknow earlier this week. His decision followed detailed discussions with the selectors and chairman Ajit Agarkar and he formalized it in writing through an email to the board.
In his communication, Shreyas Iyer reportedly explained that the physical demands of red-ball cricket had become difficult to manage because of stiffness and fatigue in his back. He told selectors that he struggles to stay on the field for more than four consecutive days, making it nearly impossible to cope with the longer version of the game. While he did turn out for a Ranji Trophy match last year, he admitted that frequent breaks during play were necessary, something that would not be sustainable at the international Test level or even in India A assignments.
A source quoted in the report noted that it was good that Shreyas Iyer had made his stance clear, as it gave selectors clarity about his immediate future. The board has been informed that he will not be involved in red-ball cricket for the coming months, though he will continue to monitor his body with help from trainers and physios before making a final call on his long-term plans.
Shreyas Iyer was initially in contention for selection in India’s upcoming two-Test home series against West Indies starting next month. To prepare, he had been named the captain of India A for two four-day matches against Australia A. His withdrawal has now cast doubt on his red-ball future.
The batsman did, however, enjoy a strong Indian Premier League season this year with Punjab Kings, earning praise for his attacking batting. Yet despite that form, he was overlooked for the Asia Cup squad, a decision that surprised many followers of the game.
This is not the first time his back problems have disrupted his career. He missed the high-profile Test series against England at home last year for the same reason. Earlier, he also pulled out of Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy quarterfinals, citing back pain. At that point, controversy erupted when Nitin Patel, then head of sports science at the National Cricket Academy, told selectors in an email that Shreyas Iyer was fit and had no fresh injury. Nitin Patel wrote that Shreyas Iyer was available for selection as per the Indian team’s handover report, contradicting the player’s claims.
Shreyas Iyer’s latest step has once again brought his fitness into sharp focus and while he remains a valuable asset in white-ball formats, his Test future looks increasingly uncertain.
