ENG vs IND: Fans rally behind Shreyas Iyer for his inclusion in Test squad after India’s loss at the Lord’s




As India endured a dramatic defeat at Lord’s in the third Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, losing all their wickets for 170 while chasing a modest 193, voices among the cricket community grew louder in support of Shreyas Iyer’s recall to the Test squad. With India’s celebrated middle order in flux following the retirements of stalwarts, many fans and former players are urging selectors to reconsider the omission of Iyer, whose recent domestic form has only bolstered his case.

Shreyas Iyer’s hot form in domestic circuit 

In the wake of his exclusion from the Test squad, Iyer has let his bat do the talking in India’s domestic red-ball circuit. After losing his place in the national side earlier in 2024 and briefly being stripped of his BCCI central contract, Iyer mounted a compelling comeback. He delivered consistent performances across formats, but it was his Ranji Trophy record that stood out—the 30-year-old averaged an impressive 68.57 in five matches during the 2024-25 season, leading from the front both as a batter and a captain.

This resurgence was not lost upon cricket legends. Former India opener Virender Sehwag publicly questioned the rationale behind Iyer’s omission, emphasizing that a player in such fine touch is more likely to succeed at the highest level, especially under the pressure-cooker conditions of a Test series in England. For many, Iyer’s ability to soak up pressure, rotate strike, and counter-attack marked him as an ideal candidate for the new-look Indian middle order.

Notably, Iyer’s performances were instrumental not only in white-ball tournaments—where he contributed to India’s Champions Trophy campaign—but also in restoring his reputation and BCCI contract. Despite injuries and a patch of poor form in 2023 that saw his Test average dip, the Mumbai batter’s domestic displays have reignited debate about his rightful place in the squad.

India’s Lord’s collapse spurs selection outcry

India’s narrow defeat at Lord’s left fans and pundits dissecting the batting order’s fragility. Chasing 193—a target that historically should have been within reach—the team crumbled against relentless English bowling, losing their last wickets on the final day for just 170 runs. A promising position after Day 4 quickly unravelled, with early wickets tumbling and resistance fading across the lower middle order.

Such a collapse underlined the need for experience and composure in high-pressure situations. For supporters, Iyer’s absence was glaring, especially considering the inconsistency of some middle-order replacements and the recent retirement of key figures. On social media, fans pointed out that Iyer had scored more runs in limited opportunities than others retained in the squad, questioning the selectors’ logic.

India’s defeat at Lord’s is more than just a missed Test win—it has become a rallying point for those who believe Iyer’s grit and form warrant a Test recall. As the series moves forward and the hunt for new leaders intensifies, the clamour for Iyer’s reinstatement looks set to grow louder, fueled by his exploits in domestic cricket and the national side’s immediate needs.

Also READ: ENG vs IND: Herschelle Gibbs highlights key reason behind India defeat against England in Lord’s Test

Here’ how fans reacted:

Also READ: ENG vs IND: Shubman Gill faces fans backlash after calling Rishabh Pant’s run-out the turning point in Lord’s Test





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