Shreyas Iyer explains reason for six-month break from red-ball cricket: 'To maintain intensity in internationals'

Divy Dubey

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Shreyas Iyer explains reason for six-month break from red-ball cricket: 'To maintain intensity in internationals' image

Shreyas Iyer has shed light on his decision to take an extended break from red-ball cricket. Speaking after India's narrow two-wicket loss to Australia in Adelaide, the middle-order batter said the choice stemmed from his need to manage workload and maintain peak intensity across formats.

With a packed international calendar and ongoing fitness concerns, Iyer's decision marks a shift toward sustainability over constant participation.

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Shreyas Iyer on why he took a six-month break from red-ball cricket

Earlier this month, Iyer formally requested a six-month break from domestic red-ball cricket, citing recurring back issues. The BCCI accepted his request, allowing him to focus exclusively on limited-overs formats for now.

The 30-year-old has been a consistent performer for India at No. 4 in ODIs, starring in the Champions Trophy and leading his IPL side to the final earlier this year. However, after missing out on India's T20 squad for the Asia Cup, Iyer decided it was time to pause his first-class commitments.

"When I came to red-ball cricket (after the Champions Trophy and IPL), I realised that after fielding a few overs, my intensity went down. The intensity required at the international level was not matching, so I took that decision and conveyed it to the selectors," Iyer said.

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Iyer added that he has been fine-tuning his batting technique to adapt to various conditions, especially on bouncier pitches.

"Even in Mumbai, when we play on red-soil wickets with extra bounce, an upright stance helps. Every surface is different, and I have changed my stance several times now. I feel I can adapt anywhere at the moment," he said.

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In the second ODI, Iyer played a key role in India's total of 264, forming a 118-run stand with Rohit Sharma on a tricky pitch. Despite the loss, he looked in strong touch against Australia's pace attack.

What's next for Shreyas Iyer?

With the ODI series already decided 2-0 in Australia's favour, Iyer will aim to finish on a high in the final match in Sydney on October 25. His focus, for now, remains on staying fit and consistent in limited-overs cricket while keeping an eye on future Test opportunities.

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