Middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer has written to the BCCI, requesting time off from Test and first-class cricket to reset his fitness regimen.

The development comes after his withdrawal from the four-day match against Australia A, for which he had been named as captain. He submitted the request to BCCI and also spoke with chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

Shreyas Iyer who underwent back surgery in 2023, is not calling time on his test career as yet though.

While he informed the India A team management that he had gone to Mumbai for personal reasons, he has informed the chairman of the selection committee that his back can’t take the rigours of first-class and Test cricket for the time being,” said a BCCI source.

“He is only seeking a break. After working on his fitness, he will reset his red-ball career and come back stronger,” the source added.

The decision comes just ahead of the two-match home test serie against the West Indies, which would have marked his first appearance in the format since being dropped midway through the home series against England in February 2024.

After withdrawing from the second unofficial test against Australia A, Iyer has consulted the selection committee before formally notifying the BCCI.

He was expected to return to West Indies tests after Karun Nair’s disappointing performance in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

This is not the first time Iyer has stepped down from the format. He missed Ranji Trophy matches last season and the home test series against England.

It is highly likely to miss the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai in the upcoming season. Shreyas Iyer has played 17 Tests so far and featured in 70 first class matches.

However, he intends to continue his white-ball career. He should be an integral part of ODI squad for the India tour of Australia 2025 and likely to be included in the T20I squad.

The Australia tour is set to begin on October 19 and will be played until the November 8.