The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, and all eyes are on Shreyas Iyer as he returns to the Indian squad. The 30-year-old middle-order batter, a standout performer in India’s 2023 World Cup campaign, has had a rollercoaster journey since then. Injuries have sidelined him, and stiff competition in the middle order has made his path back to the playing XI anything but straightforward.
But here’s the twist: Ricky Ponting, the Australian cricket legend, has thrown his weight behind Iyer, predicting a strong comeback for the Mumbai batter. According to Ponting, Iyer’s batting style is tailor-made for the Champions Trophy, especially with the tournament being played in subcontinent conditions.
So, will Shreyas Iyer reclaim his spot in India’s top order? Let’s break it all down.
Introduction: The Big Question on Iyer’s Place in Team India
Shreyas Iyer’s return to the Indian squad has sparked intense debate. On one hand, his World Cup 2023 heroics (530 runs at an average of 58.88) make him a strong contender for the middle order. On the other hand, injuries and fierce competition have kept him out of the playing XI for months.
With the Champions Trophy 2025 looming, the question on everyone’s mind is: Will Iyer be part of India’s starting lineup?
Shreyas Iyer’s Journey: From World Cup Star to Injury Setback
Key Highlights: Iyer’s Recent Performances & Comeback
- World Cup 2023: Iyer was India’s backbone in the middle order, scoring 530 runs and finishing as the 7th-highest run-getter in the tournament.
- Injury Struggles: A back injury sidelined him for several months, disrupting his momentum.
- Domestic Cricket Form: Iyer made a strong comeback with two centuries for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, signalling his return to form.
- ODI Comeback vs. England: In his first ODI back, Iyer scored a match-winning half-century, reminding everyone of his class.
Why Iyer Was Left Out of the Squad?
Despite his World Cup heroics, Iyer hasn’t been an automatic pick in India’s top six. Here’s why:
- Stiff Competition: Players like KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rishabh Pant have cemented their spots in the middle order.
- Injury Concerns: His recurring back issues have raised questions about his fitness and longevity.
- Experimentation with Younger Talents: The team has been giving opportunities to younger players like Tilak Varma, adding to the competition.
Ricky Ponting’s Take: Why He Backs Shreyas Iyer for Champions Trophy 2025
In a recent interview on The ICC Review, Ricky Ponting shared his thoughts on Iyer’s comeback:
“He’s got the game that will stand up to the white-ball formats, especially in that part of the world.”
Ponting emphasized that Iyer’s ability to handle spin and play on slow wickets makes him a perfect fit for the Champions Trophy, which will be played in subcontinent conditions.
What Makes Iyer a Valuable Asset?
- Expert at Playing Spin: Opponents often avoid bowling spinners against India, but Iyer thrives against them.
- Reliable Middle-Order Batter: He can anchor the innings or accelerate when needed.
- Proven Match-Winner: His performances in high-pressure ICC tournaments show he can deliver when it matters most.
Player Performance Breakdown: Comparing Iyer’s Stats to His Competition
PlayerODI Runs (Since 2023)Avg.SR100s50s
Shreyas Iyer 530 58.88 96.4 2 3
KL Rahul 496 47.27 89.2 1 4
Suryakumar Yadav 302 33.55 112.1 1 2
Tilak Varma 225 37.50 98.3 0 2
Verdict: Iyer has the best average and consistency, proving he deserves a spot in India’s playing XI.
Future Impact: What’s Next for Shreyas Iyer?
Will Iyer Make It to the Champions Trophy Squad?
His selection will depend on:
- Fitness Tests & Form: Can he maintain consistency in upcoming matches?
- Competition from KL Rahul & SKY: India’s middle-order has strong contenders.
- Team Balance & Strategy: India may prefer a left-hander like Ishan Kishan for variety.
Expert Prediction: Will Iyer Shine at Champions Trophy 2025?
- 🔥 If Iyer gets a spot in the squad, Ponting believes he will be a game-changer.
- 🔥 His experience in ICC tournaments gives him an edge over younger players.
- 🔥 With subcontinent pitches favoring his batting style, Iyer could be a key player for India.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Why was Shreyas Iyer dropped from India’s squad?
Iyer suffered a back injury, which kept him out of action for several months. During this time, other players like KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav cemented their spots in India’s middle order.
2. What are Shreyas Iyer’s stats in ICC tournaments?
Iyer has been a consistent performer in ICC events.
- World Cup 2023: 530 runs in 11 innings, including two centuries.
- T20 World Cup: Limited opportunities but boasts a strong strike rate.
3. Is Iyer likely to play in the Champions Trophy 2025?
His selection depends on his fitness, form, and competition from other batters. If he continues performing well, he has a strong chance of making the squad.
4. What makes Iyer unique in white-ball cricket?
Iyer is a strong spinner who can accelerate in the middle overs and has proven himself in high-pressure situations. His ability to control the innings makes him an asset in ODI cricket.
Will Iyer Make a Strong Comeback?
Shreyas Iyer’s return is one of the most exciting storylines ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. While he faces tough competition, his class, consistency, and experience in ICC tournaments make him a strong contender for India’s squad.