24 Sep 2025 : Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has formally requested a break from red-ball cricket (the longer format, including Ranji Trophy matches) to focus on fitness, form, and recovery. The decision has drawn attention from both fans and selectors, as Iyer has been an important part of India’s white-ball setup in recent years.
A Strategic Pause
Sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Iyer communicated his decision through the proper channels, expressing a desire to concentrate on rehabilitation and white-ball cricket for the immediate future.
“Iyer has conveyed that he wants to take some time away from red-ball cricket to work on his fitness and prepare for upcoming white-ball assignments,” a source close to the developments said.
Injuries and Recent Challenges
Iyer has struggled with back injuries over the past year, which forced him to miss several series, including important Test matches. Although he made a return during India’s ODI World Cup 2023 campaign, workload management has become a key factor in his career planning.
Red-ball cricket, with its long hours at the crease and intensive demands, is physically more taxing. Many players recovering from injuries take selective breaks from formats to prolong their careers and avoid recurrence of injuries.
Focus on White-Ball Cricket
The 29-year-old is considered a reliable batter in ODIs and T20Is, with consistent performances in the middle order. With the T20 World Cup 2024 and other white-ball tournaments approaching, Iyer is keen to stay fully fit for India’s limited-overs assignments.
In addition, his leadership role in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Kolkata Knight Riders adds another dimension, as he will be expected to guide the franchise in a highly competitive tournament.
Balancing Formats
The decision also reflects a wider trend in modern cricket, where players sometimes prioritize specific formats based on career stage, physical condition, and team requirements. Experts suggest that while it may limit his Test opportunities in the short term, it could extend Iyer’s international career overall.
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra commented: “It’s a smart move if Iyer feels he can contribute more in white-ball cricket right now. The key is managing fitness so he can serve India for years.”
Reaction from Mumbai Cricket Circles
Since Iyer represents Mumbai in domestic cricket, his request has also drawn attention from the state association. Mumbai is traditionally one of India’s strongest red-ball sides, and the absence of a player like Iyer could affect their Ranji Trophy campaign.
However, officials say they respect the player’s decision, as maintaining long-term fitness is critical, especially for athletes dealing with recurring back issues.
The Bigger Picture for Team India
India’s Test team has a strong middle-order pool, with players like Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer himself competing for spots. Given this depth, selectors may not view Iyer’s temporary red-ball absence as a major setback.
Still, his ability to play spin and anchor long innings has been valuable in Tests. Fans hope that once fully fit, he will return to the longer format to contribute again.
Workload Management in Modern Cricket
Cricketers today often face packed schedules across formats—Tests, ODIs, T20Is, and franchise leagues. With constant travel, bio-bubbles (in recent years), and high expectations, managing workload has become an essential part of a professional player’s career.
Iyer’s choice mirrors similar decisions taken by other international stars who prefer focusing on formats that best suit their strengths or career plans.
What Lies Ahead
In the coming months, Iyer is expected to:
- Continue rehabilitation and strength training to maintain back health.
- Feature prominently in India’s white-ball series.
- Prepare as a key batter and leader for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024.
- Potentially revisit red-ball cricket once his body is better conditioned for the demands of Test matches.
Summary
Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer has requested a break from red-ball cricket to focus on fitness and white-ball formats, aiming to manage injuries, extend his career, and prepare for upcoming tournaments.