Indian middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer is currently making headlines, though perhaps not in the way he would have hoped. After pulling out of the India A series, the 30-year-old has reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he needs a break from red-ball cricket. Citing stiffness and fatigue issues in his back, Iyer has communicated his decision to the national selectors, expressing his inability to endure the rigors of the longer format.

Iyer's decision comes after he was named captain of the India A team for the series against Australia A. He withdrew from the second unofficial Test that began in Lucknow. Iyer informed selectors that he is facing stiffness in his back and his body cannot take the toll of red ball cricket anymore. It is learnt that Iyer can't be on the field for more than four days and as a reason he is thinking of taking a break until his body allows him to play longer format. Iyer informed the board that he played 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.

According to sources, Iyer has communicated that he will assess his body in the future, consulting with physios and trainers before making a decision. This decision also casts doubt on his participation in the Ranji Trophy season, which is scheduled to commence on October 15.

Iyer's back issues have been a recurring concern. He underwent surgery in 2023 to be fit for the 50-over World Cup. Earlier in 2024, he had cited back pain as the reason for sitting out of a Ranji Trophy quarterfinal game. However, at that time, Nitin Patel, the National Cricket Academy's head of sports science and medicine, stated that Iyer was fit and available for selection.

Iyer's Test career has seen him play 14 matches since his debut in 2021, scoring 811 runs with one century and five fifties. He last played Test cricket in February 2024. While he has cemented his place in the ODI format and enjoyed a successful IPL season, he has struggled against fast, short balls in Test cricket.

The selectors are scheduled to meet to pick the Test team for the two-match West Indies series at home, starting on October 2. It remains to be seen whether Iyer will be considered for selection after this development. Sources indicate that Iyer will head to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for further evaluation and a structured recovery process.