Shreyas Iyer Set to Play Duleep Trophy After Test Snub

The much-anticipated Duleep Trophy 2025 is set to begin India’s domestic red ball format season on August 28, and preparations around it are underway across all five zones: North, South, East, West, and Central. This year, the organizers have returned to the classical zonal format after hosting the tournament in a different format last edition.

With the old format back, teams are now working to build strong, competitive squads. But among all the balanced units, one team seems to have pulled itself ahead with the inclusion of seasoned international cricketer whose return to domestic cricket will surely add the benefit of experience.

Shreyas Iyer to Play Duleep Trophy

Shreyas Iyer, who was once a regular name in India’s red-ball squad, has been missing from the squad for over a year. Despite leading an IPL side to its maiden final this season and playing a crucial role in India’s recent white-ball triumphs, he was overlooked for the ongoing five-Test match series in England.

The Mumbai-born right-hander has informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he is available to play in the Duleep Trophy and is expected to be part of the West Zone squad. Shreyas Iyer Duleep Trophy return comes after he has been snubbed for the Indian Test team which is currently playing in England. Instead of Iyer, the selectors decided to give a chance to Karun Nair in India's middle order.

His inclusion in the Duleep Trophy goes beyond just a personal feat; it strengthens the West Zone team as well. Alongside other notable names like Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, and Tushar Deshpande, Iyer adds balance, leadership, and depth to the Squad. His presence in the squad will not only improve the middle order but will also add experience in the team alongside younger players.

Shreyas Iyer Test Career

Iyer, who last played a Test in February 2024 against England, has so far featured in 14 Test matches, amassing 811 runs at an average of over 36. His stats includes a century and five fifties, along with numerous middle-order contributions. However, his recurring injuries and fierce competition have kept him out of the Test arena since early last year.

Right before the beginning of the Duleep Trophy 2025 season, Iyer was seen enjoying a brief vacation in Europe following his run in the T20 Mumbai League, where his side finished as runners-up. Before that, he led Punjab Kings to the IPL 2025 final as well. Shreyas Iyer domestic return can pave the way for his inclusion in India's Test team. The Men in Blue will play a home Test series against West Indies later this year and Iyer will eye a place in this squad.

Shreyas Iyer has long been part of India’s white ball setup, playing key roles in tournaments like the 2023 World Cup, where India finished runners-up and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which India won. His ability to stay composed under pressure, rotate strike efficiently, and shift the pace when needed makes him a reliable option in multi-day cricket as well. Although his Test career has seen ups and downs, he remains an experienced player and a valuable asset to the team.

Moreover, this tournament gives Iyer a golden opportunity to revive his Test career. Despite the noticeable gaps in India’s middle order, he was overlooked for the ongoing Test series in England. Now with the Duleep Trophy on the line, he has the perfect platform to show he is ready for red-ball cricket.