Overview

• Former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar said he cannot understand how Shreyas Iyer can be unavailable for red-ball cricket yet available for white-ball formats.
• The BCCI said Iyer, who previously underwent back surgery in the UK, has experienced recurring spasms and stiffness in the longer format and will use the break to rebuild endurance and fitness.
• In view of his decision, the board did not consider him for the Irani Cup, removing him from a key red-ball selection pathway.
• Iyer captained India A in the first unofficial Test against Australia A in Lucknow before withdrawing from the second match.
• He was named India’s ODI vice-captain after Shubman Gill’s elevation to captain, with Rohit Sharma giving way in that role, while his last Test appearance came in February 2024.