Here are five compelling reasons Shreyas Iyer deserves a recall to India’s Test XI, especially in light of Kohli-Rohit retirements and the 1st Test loss at Headingley:
1. Fills the post-Kohli/Rohit void in the middle order
With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma having recently retired from Test cricket, India’s middle order needs an experienced, reliable batter who can both rebuild and accelerate. Iyer has proven adaptability at Nos. 4–6 and offers the perfect blend of technique and intent to steady innings and shift gears when required.
2. Red-ball temperament confirmed on debut
On Test debut against New Zealand in Kanpur (Nov 2021), Iyer scored a brilliant 105, becoming only the 16th Indian to hit a century on Test debut. He then backed it up with a fifty in the second innings, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure.
3. Consistent first-class performer
Across 81 first-class matches, Iyer averages 48.57 with 15 centuries (top score 233), highlighting his long-term red-ball credentials and capacity to play big innings in varying conditions.
4. Big-match temperament in pressure situations
Even outside Tests, Iyer has shown mental steel—he was named ICC Men’s Player of the Month for March 2025 following match-winning contributions in the Champions Trophy, underlining his flair for rising to the occasion.
5. Leadership qualities, peak fitness & fielding excellence
At 30, Iyer is in his prime. He captained Kolkata Knight Riders (2022–24) and led Punjab Kings to their maiden IPL title in 2024, proving his leadership pedigree. Add to that his agility in the field—15 catches in 14 Tests so far—and you have a complete middle-order package ready for the rigors of Test cricket .
In summary, India’s loss at Headingley and the retirements of its batting mainstays make this an ideal moment to bring back a proven red-ball performer who combines temperament, consistency, leadership and fielding prowess. Shreyas Iyer checks every box.
