BCCI green signals Shreyas Iyer's six-month break from red-ball cricket

Experienced Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer had written to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), requesting for a 'break from red-ball cricket' due to stiffness and fatigue issues in his back. The board has confirmed the development and granted him a six-month break as per his request, while also naming him the captain of India A side, which is set to play a two-match unofficial one-day series against Australia A from September 30.

Iyer, who was appointed skipper of India A team for the ongoing series against Australia A, pulled out of the second unofficial Test that commenced at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Tuesday, September 23, with Dhruv Jurel coming into the team. It later emerged that after consultation with selectors and the chairman of the selection committee, Ajit Agarkar, Iyer had made a formal request to the BCCI in an email.

Iyer communicated to the selectors that he is experiencing stiffness in his back and his body is unable to cope with the rigours of red-ball cricket anymore. Notably, Iyer informed the board that he played a Ranji Trophy game last year, where he managed to take a break in between the overs; however, he cannot do the same for India A or while playing Test cricket. It is learnt that Iyer could not be on the field for more than four days and wanted to give his body some rest to try and get back in the kind of physical condition required to play the red-ball format.

"Mr Shreyas Iyer has informed the BCCI of his decision to take a six-month break from red-ball cricket. Having undergone back surgery in the UK and managed his recovery well, he has recently experienced recurring back spasms and stiffness while playing the longer format. He wishes to utilise this period to build endurance, body resilience and work on his fitness. In view of his decision, he was not considered for selection for the Irani Cup," the BCCI statement said.

Iyer has struggled with back injuries in recent years. However, he was in line to be selected for the home Test series against the West Indies in October. Now, with his decision to stay away from red-ball cricket, Iyer's international comeback could come in Australia after the Tests against the West Indies. The Men in Blue will play three ODIs against the Aussies.