India National Cricket Team’s spin bowling legend Ravichandran Ashwin recently weighed in on the potential comeback of star middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer to the Test team. Ashwin emphasized that Iyer’s return to the Test squad should not be solely based on a successful Indian Premier League (IPL) season with Punjab Kings (PBKS), as each format of the game should be considered separately.
Shreyas Iyer, a 30-year-old right-handed batter, is currently a key part of India’s One Day International (ODI) setup but has been excluded from the Test and T20I squads. Despite establishing himself as the No.4 batter in the ODI team with consistent performances, Iyer has struggled to replicate his success in the longer and shortest formats of the game.
In the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Iyer impressed with his batting skills, scoring 243 runs at an average of 48 and emerging as India’s highest run-scorer. However, his performance in Test and T20I cricket has not been as strong, leading to his omission from those squads. Iyer last played a Test match for India in February 2024 against England and his last T20I appearance was against Australia in December 2023.
Overall, Shreyas Iyer has represented India in 14 Tests, 70 ODIs, and 51 T20Is, amassing 811, 2845, and 1104 runs, respectively. Despite his success in ODIs, his Test and T20I credentials are currently under scrutiny.
During a discussion on his official YouTube channel, Ashwin expressed his disagreement with the notion that a good IPL season should automatically warrant a Test call-up for a player. He questioned the logic behind mixing formats and emphasized the importance of proving oneself in each format independently.
Ashwin highlighted Iyer’s contributions to Team India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and his pivotal role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL victory the previous year. Praising Iyer’s skills, Ashwin acknowledged his potential for continued success in the IPL and lauded him as a fantastic player.
Looking ahead, Iyer is set to bat at No.3 for Punjab Kings in the upcoming IPL 2025 season. The franchise will kick off their campaign against Gujarat Titans on Tuesday, March 25, in Ahmedabad.
In conclusion, Ashwin’s insights shed light on the complexities of player selection and the need for consistent performances across all formats of the game to earn a spot in the Test squad. Shreyas Iyer’s journey exemplifies the challenges and expectations faced by players striving to excel in international cricket.
Shreyas Iyer’s Evolution as a Cricketer
Shreyas Iyer’s cricketing journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days in domestic cricket to representing India on the international stage, Iyer has shown tremendous potential and skill. His ability to adapt to different formats and situations has been one of his key strengths, making him a versatile player in the Indian setup.
The Challenge of Transitioning Between Formats
One of the biggest challenges for cricketers like Iyer is the transition between formats. While he has excelled in ODIs, translating that success to Test cricket and T20Is has proven to be more challenging. The different demands of each format require players to adjust their game and mindset accordingly, which can be a daunting task.
However, Iyer’s determination and work ethic have been evident in his constant efforts to improve and adapt to different formats. His willingness to learn and evolve as a cricketer bodes well for his future prospects in Test and T20I cricket.
The Importance of Consistency
Consistency is key in cricket, especially at the international level. Players like Iyer must not only perform well in one-off tournaments or seasons but sustain their form over a prolonged period to solidify their position in the national team. The pressure to deliver consistently can be daunting, but it is a challenge that separates the good from the great.
For Iyer, the focus now will be on maintaining his form in the upcoming IPL season and using it as a platform to showcase his skills across all formats. A strong performance in the IPL could potentially open the doors for his return to the Test and T20I squads, provided he can prove his capabilities in those formats as well.
Looking Ahead
As Shreyas Iyer gears up to represent Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 season, all eyes will be on him to see how he performs in a high-pressure tournament. The IPL has often been a stage where players have catapulted themselves into national reckoning, and Iyer will be looking to do just that.
Whether he can make a compelling case for his inclusion in the Test and T20I squads remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain – Iyer’s talent, determination, and unwavering spirit will continue to drive him towards greater heights in his cricketing career.
In conclusion, Shreyas Iyer’s journey is a testament to the challenges and opportunities that come with being an international cricketer. As he navigates the complexities of different formats and strives for consistency, his evolution as a player will be closely watched by fans, experts, and selectors alike.
