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Top 3 players who can replace Shreyas Iyer in remaining 3 Tests against England
India’s middle-order batter, Shreyas Iyer, facing a dip in form and nursing stiff back and groyne pain, is likely to miss the remaining three Tests against England. As the team gears up for the remainder of the crucial Test series, Iyer’s doubtful about participation. His absence now raises the question of his replacement.
So, in our listicle, we explore the top three contenders who could step in to fill the void left by Iyer. With the squad announcement on the horizon and the third Test scheduled in Rajkot on February 15, the search for a suitable replacement intensifies.
#3. Cheteshwar Pujara
Cheteshwar Pujara (Source: Twitter)
In the absence of Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, India lacks experience, making Cheteshwar Pujara a viable replacement in the remaining Tests against England. Pujara, a seasoned veteran, boasts incredible form, currently ranking as the second-highest run scorer in the tournament. His exceptional track record against England, coupled with being the second-highest run-scorer among active Indian cricketers, strengthens his case.
In the Ranji Trophy 2024, Pujara’s outstanding performance includes 622 runs in six innings at an impressive average of 88.85, with a best of 243 not out. With such stellar stats, Pujara becomes an ideal candidate to infuse experience into the squad, potentially filling the void left by the absence of Kohli and the injured Iyer.
#2. Sarfaraz Khan
Sarfaraz Khan (Source: Twitter)
The promising 26-year-old batsman, Sarfaraz Khan, emerges as a compelling option to replace Shreyas Iyer at No. 4. Initially called up for the Vizag Test, Sarfaraz showcased his versatility by taking on the role of a substitute fielder after Shubman Gill’s injury. Eager to make his debut for India against England, Sarfaraz is in red-hot form.
His impressive performances for India A against the England Lions, where he consistently recorded fifty-plus scores (96, 4, 55, and 161) across four innings, highlight his form and readiness. With a strong case built on recent successes and a hunger for international exposure, Sarfaraz Khan emerges as a compelling contender to strengthen India’s middle order in the crucial Test series against England.
#1. KL Rahul
KL Rahul (Source: Twitter)
Given his stellar track record as a versatile middle-order batter, star India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul emerges as a prime candidate to replace Shreyas Iyer in the last three Test matches against England. With Iyer’s uncertain availability and Virat Kohli‘s doubtful status, Rahul’s proficiency makes him an ideal fit at No. 4, resolving the middle-order puzzle.
Rahul showcased his batting prowess with an impressive 86 in the first inning of the Test opener. Despite missing the second Test due to right quadriceps pain, the 31-year-old is on the path to recovery, increasing the likelihood of his inclusion in the playing XI for the crucial third Test. As India seeks stability in the middle order, Rahul’s experience and batting finesse position him as a valuable replacement for the injured Iyer.