In a press release, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed Iyer’s decision: “Mr Shreyas Iyer has informed the BCCI of his decision to take a six-month break from red-ball cricket. Having undergone back surgery in the UK and managed his recovery well, he has recently experienced recurring back spasms and stiffness while playing the longer format. He wishes to utilise this period to build endurance, body resilience and work on his fitness.” The board stressed that Iyer’s unavailability for the upcoming Irani Cup meant he would not feature in the Rest of India squad for the traditional fixture against Ranji Trophy champions Vidarbha in Nagpur.
Despite his Test hiatus, Iyer will remain in BCCI plans for white-ball cricket, leading the India A side as captain in the three-match one-day series against Australia A. The first match kicks off in Kanpur on September 30, followed by two matches with a slightly revised squad composition. For the opening fixture, the India A lineup includes Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Riyan Parag, Ayush Badoni, Ravi Bishnoi and others under Iyer’s leadership. Tilak Varma will join as vice-captain for matches two and three, with Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana bolstering the pace attack.
The BCCI also released the Rest of India (ROI) squad for the Irani Cup, featuring seasoned campaigners like Rajat Patidar (captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan (WK) and promising talents including Yash Dhull and Manav Suthar. The Irani Cup clash against Vidarbha begins on October 1 in Nagpur.
Shreyas Iyer’s strategic break underlines the BCCI’s emphasis on player workload management and fitness. His leadership of India A in Australia A’s one-day series will provide him valuable match practice while safeguarding his long-term red-ball prospects.
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