India middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has been granted a break from red-ball cricket following a personal request to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). While he won’t be available for Test cricket in the near future, Iyer will continue to play in white-ball formats — specifically One-Day Internationals (ODIs), both at the domestic and international level.
The decision marks a significant shift in Iyer’s cricketing career, essentially making him a one-format player for the Indian national team at present.
Iyer’s Injury Concerns and Red-Ball Break
Shreyas Iyer has long battled a recurring back issue, which previously required surgery. Although he returned to competitive cricket and participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with notable performances, it appears the discomfort has persisted.
Speaking about Iyer’s decision, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra highlighted the implications of taking a red-ball break. “Shreyas Iyer has said he wants to rest. It’s an interesting one because he’s already taken a six-month sabbatical. He had back pain earlier, underwent surgery, and though he’s back, he’s still not feeling the same,” Chopra said in an interview with RepublicWorld.com.
Chopra also pointed out the competitive nature of the Indian Test team, adding that extended absences may cost players like Iyer their spots permanently. “Whoever plays in his absence will cement their place. It won’t be easy for him to return,” he added.
Potential Impact on BCCI Central Contract
Shreyas Iyer is currently part of BCCI’s Grade B contract list, but with him now playing only in one format, there is speculation that he could be moved to a lower grade. Aakash Chopra weighed in on this potential shift, saying, “An issue might come up in his contract. His name doesn’t feature in the T20I squad either. So, being a one-format player now, he might be placed in a lower category.”
This would mirror past instances where cricketers not involved across formats — especially Tests — have seen adjustments in their central contracts.
Missed Asia Cup and Test Series
Despite performing well in the IPL 2025 season, Iyer was not selected for the Asia Cup 2025 squad. He also missed out on the two-match Test series against the West Indies, a series he opted out of due to his request for rest from red-ball duties.
What’s Next for Shreyas Iyer?
The next opportunity for Iyer to don the India jersey is expected to be in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, starting October 19, 2025. This series will be a crucial platform for him to solidify his place in India’s ODI setup ahead of future ICC events.
As Iyer navigates his fitness concerns and focuses solely on the 50-over format, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact his long-term career and standing within the Indian cricket ecosystem.
