Shreyas Iyer’s prospects of returning to India’s Test squad have taken a significant hit following a disappointing performance in the Duleep Trophy, where he managed only 104 runs across four innings. His underwhelming showing in the tournament has raised concerns about his form, and according to a BCCI official, Iyer’s current state does not warrant a spot in the Test lineup, effectively shutting the doors on his immediate return.
Iyer had an opportunity to make a case for himself ahead of a busy Test season for India, which includes a home series against New Zealand and a high-stakes five-match Test tour to Australia after the Bangladesh series. A strong performance in the Duleep Trophy could have reignited his chances, but the 104 runs he accumulated fell far short of expectations, further damaging his chances of a Test comeback.
The setback comes on the heels of an already difficult period for Iyer, who was left out of India’s squad for the Bangladesh Test series. Once considered a potential middle-order mainstay, his poor form has left him out of favor with selectors, and the latest performances in domestic cricket have only deepened concerns about his ability to reclaim a place in the Test team.
India’s packed Test schedule in the coming months presents opportunities for several players to stake their claims, but Iyer's form suggests he will not be among them unless there is a drastic turnaround. His Test career, once filled with promise, now seems at a crossroads, with his recent performances doing little to assure selectors of his readiness for the challenges of the longest format.
For now, Iyer’s Test future looks uncertain, and unless he can dramatically improve his performances in upcoming domestic and international fixtures, his chances of donning the whites for India again appear slim.
