Shreyas Iyer's recent decision to take a break from red-ball cricket has sparked debate and drawn comparisons to Karun Nair's unfortunate trajectory in Test cricket. A former Indian cricketer has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Iyer's future in Test cricket could be in jeopardy, even going so far as to categorize him as a 'B category' player.

Iyer's withdrawal from India's second four-day game against Australia A, citing personal reasons and a six-month break from red-ball cricket, has raised eyebrows. The BCCI confirmed Iyer's decision, stating that it was to manage his body due to fitness issues. Iyer has been experiencing recurring back spasms and stiffness while playing the longer format, which led to his decision. This is not the first time Iyer's fitness has been a concern; he underwent back surgery in April 2023. While his initial rehabilitation was successful, the demands of Test cricket seem to be taking a toll.

Aakash Chopra, a former India cricketer, commented on Iyer's decision, acknowledging its potential long-term repercussions. He noted the discussions surrounding Iyer's non-inclusion in the Asia Cup squad, where many felt he deserved a chance. Despite being a regular in the ODI format and initially named captain for India A's multi-day games against Australia A with an eye on the home Test series, his absence is now a talking point.

The timing of Iyer's break is significant, coinciding with the selection of the India Test squad for the home series. The BCCI's statement clarified that Iyer's decision was not sudden but the result of ongoing discussions. Despite his hiatus from red-ball cricket, Iyer will captain India A in the three-match One Day series against Australia A. This indicates his commitment to white-ball cricket and managing his workload. The BCCI acknowledged Iyer's physical struggles since his back surgery, stating that he wants to use this time to build endurance, body resilience, and work on his fitness. Consequently, he was not considered for the Irani Cup.

Comparisons are being drawn between Iyer's situation and that of Karun Nair, whose Test career faced an abrupt halt after a sensational triple century. Nair, despite his remarkable feat, was dropped from the team and never regained his place. This has fueled concerns that Iyer's absence from red-ball cricket could similarly impact his Test future.

Chopra has also stated that the Indian Test batting unit is currently strong, with players like Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan waiting for their opportunities, making it difficult for Iyer to reclaim his spot immediately. While acknowledging Iyer's good form and performance in first-class cricket and the IPL, Chopra believes he will have to wait longer for a Test comeback, especially in awayseries.

Iyer has played 14 Test matches, scoring 811 runs at an average of 36.86, including one century and five half-centuries. In first-class cricket, he has 6363 runs at an average of 48.57 with 15 centuries and 33 fifties.