The exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from India's Test squad for the upcoming tour of England has sparked considerable debate, with head coach Gautam Gambhir seemingly deflecting responsibility for the decision towards the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar.
While Gambhir has avoided directly criticizing the selection, his terse response to inquiries about Iyer's omission has been interpreted by many as an indirect commentary on the situation. When questioned about Iyer's absence, Gambhir curtly stated, "I am not a selector." This response, while factually accurate, has been viewed as a way of distancing himself from the decision and subtly highlighting the selection committee's role in it.
Shreyas Iyer's recent form has further fueled the controversy surrounding his exclusion. After being dropped from the BCCI's central contract list last year, Iyer showcased resilience and determination to improve his game. His impressive performances in the Champions Trophy 2025, where he was India's highest run-scorer, played a crucial role in India's victory. Furthermore, Iyer has been in sensational form in the Ranji Trophy, amassing 480 runs in seven innings for Mumbai at an impressive average of 68.57, including two centuries. In the ongoing IPL 2025, he has continued his rich vein of form, scoring 514 runs in 14 matches at a remarkable strike rate of 171.90 and an average of 51.40, while also leading Punjab Kings to the playoffs.
Despite Iyer's strong performances across different formats, chief selector Ajit Agarkar has stated that there is currently no room for him in the Test team. Agarkar acknowledged Iyer's good form in ODIs and domestic cricket but emphasized the need to consider the overall team composition and available opportunities. This explanation, however, has failed to quell the criticism, with many questioning the rationale behind overlooking a player who has consistently delivered runs and demonstrated leadership qualities.
Former players and cricket analysts have also weighed in on the debate, with some expressing surprise and disappointment at Iyer's exclusion. Some experts believe that Iyer's technique might not be best suited for the swinging conditions expected in England, while others argue that his recent form and experience should have warranted a place in the squad.
The decision to exclude Iyer is particularly significant considering the ongoing transition in the Indian Test team. With Shubman Gill appointed as the new Test captain and Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain, the team is clearly looking towards the future. However, the exclusion of experienced players like Iyer raises questions about the balance between nurturing young talent and relying on proven performers.
Ultimately, the selection committee's decision to exclude Shreyas Iyer remains a contentious issue. While Ajit Agarkar and his colleagues have provided their reasoning, the debate is likely to continue. As Iyer continues to perform well in domestic and franchise cricket, his case for a Test comeback will only grow stronger, potentially putting further pressure on the selectors to reconsider their decision in the future.
