Sourav Ganguly has voiced strong concerns over Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion from India’s Test squad for the upcoming series in England, stressing that Iyer deserved a spot based on his exceptional form:
🎯 Ganguly's Argument
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Iyer has been at his peak over the past year, showing maturity by scoring under pressure, taking responsibility, and improving his play against short balls — a previous vulnerability in Tests.
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Ganguly believes Test cricket’s demands differ, but still argues Iyer’s recent brilliance — including IPL success and substantial Ranji Trophy contributions — merited consideration.
📊 Iyer’s Recent Performance
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Ranji Trophy 2024–25: 480 runs in seven innings, averaging 68.57 with two centuries.
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IPL 2025 (Punjab Kings): Accumulated 604 runs in 17 matches at a strike rate of 175 — a stellar showing.
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Despite this, Iyer was dropped from the Test squad midway through the 2024 England series and hasn’t had a recall since.
🧩 Selection Decisions & Rebuttals
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Head coach Gautam Gambhir stated selections are based on squad balance, saying “anyone can be called if needed,” signaling flexibility but defending current choices.
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Chief selector Ajit Agarkar mentioned there was "no room" in the squad for Iyer, underscoring a deliberate selection philosophy focused on youth and conditions.
🏏 Outlook
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With Shubman Gill as the new Test captain and Rishabh Pant as vice-captain, India is clearly on a path of transition.
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Ganguly emphasized two main necessities for success in England: solid batting and a fit Jasprit Bumrah.
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Despite Ganguly’s critique and Iyer’s form, the selectors seem committed to their youth-centric strategy, potentially keeping doors open for future inclusion.
🔑 Summary
Ganguly maintains Iyer’s performance and growth make him a strong candidate for the Test squad, especially on form and skill progress. However, with team dynamics shifting towards youth and strategic planning for England's conditions, Iyer must wait for future openings—though his excellent run keeps the possibility alive.
