The decision comes just ahead of the selection for the home Test series against the West Indies, effectively ruling him out of contention. Iyer was leading the India A side in a red-ball series against Australia A but withdrew from the second unofficial Test and stepped down from the captaincy .
Iyer's Request and Physical Concerns
Iyer's decision is rooted in physical concerns that have resurfaced during his recent engagements with first-class cricket. According to reports, the middle-order batter has informed the BCCI and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar that he cannot remain on the field for more than four days at a stretch due to stiffness and fatigue in his back .
A source indicated that Iyer confronted these recurring issues during the first India A match against Australia A. While he managed similar challenges during the last Ranji Trophy season by taking short breaks, such flexibility is not feasible in the rigorous environment of Test cricket . Following his withdrawal, Iyer is expected to head to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for further evaluation and a structured recovery process .
Career Impact and Future Focus
This development marks a significant moment in Iyer's career. It dashes his immediate prospects of a Test recall for the West Indies series, which was seen as a potential opportunity for his return to the format after being dropped during the home series against England in February 2024 .
His recent form in white-ball cricket, however, has been strong. Iyer was part of the Indian team that won the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025 and also captained Punjab Kings to the IPL final . This break from the longer format could allow him to focus on limited-overs cricket while addressing his fitness concerns.
The selection committee, which was set to meet on September 24 to pick the squad for the West Indies Tests, will now have to look at other options to fortify the middle order .
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