Shreyas Iyer Steps Away from Red‑Ball Cricket, Named India A Captain for ODIs as ICC Hearing Looms over BCCI’s Case Against Rauf, Farhan

In a move that has reshaped perceptions of his career trajectory, Shreyas Iyer has announced a hiatus from red‑ball cricket, opting to focus on shorter formats as he battles a recurrent back issue. Simultaneously, the BCCI has lodged a formal complaint with the ICC against Pakistan’s Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan for their on‑field gestures, and an ICC hearing now looms large amid mounting drama.

Back Troubles Force a Format Shift

After undergoing back surgery abroad and showing promise in recovery, Iyer has experienced renewed stiffness and spasms when attempting longer spells in multi‑day matches. As a result, he requested a six‑month break from first‑class and Test cricket, citing physical limitations that make sustained four‑day or five‑day efforts untenable. Though he had previously attempted to manage these challenges with intermittent rest, this appears to be a more decisive pivot.

By stepping away from red‑ball formats for now, Iyer allows his body to recuperate and perhaps preserve longevity in white‑ball cricket—where he continues to shine.

Also Read- Shreyas Iyer Career Stats And Overview

Leadership in ODIs: India A Appointment

In striking contrast to his withdrawal from red‑ball formats, Iyer has been entrusted with the captaincy of India A for a three‑match ODI series against Australia A, set to begin September 30. This shift suggests that selectors still value his tactical acumen, composure, and experience in limited‑overs cricket. While some voices interpret this as grooming for higher leadership in the main ODI unit, BCCI officials have clarified that it does not guarantee any immediate change in senior team captaincy.

Iyer’s selection and captaincy highlight the board’s faith in his skills—especially given how central he has been to India’s white‑ball sobriety in recent times.

Off the Field: ICC Hearing & Cricket Diplomacy

Beyond Iyer’s personal journey, Indian cricket is embroiled in controversy. The BCCI has lodged a complaint with the ICC over Rauf’s alleged “plane crash" / “6‑0” gesture and Farhan’s bat gun celebration during the Asia Cup match against India.The ICC is set to convene a hearing to scrutinize those actions under its Code of Conduct. At the same time, the PCB countered with its own complaint against Suryakumar Yadav’s post‑match remarks, accusing them of being political in nature.

With hearings expected, cricket diplomacy and disciplinary precedent hang in balance. The outcomes could redefine how on‑field expressions are policed, and how player conduct is judged between emotion and rulebook.

Iyer’s shift away from red‑ball cricket and elevation to ODI leadership come at a charged moment in international rivalry. As the ICC hearing approaches, the sport is witnessing a tough balancing act between managing player health, competitive spirit, and the boundaries of acceptable conduct.

Know More:- Shreyas Iyer to Lead: Full India A Squad vs Australia