India’s T20 plans have taken a small hit just before the final ICC T20 World Cup 2026 preparations, and Aakash Chopra feels the answer is very simple. With Tilak Varma ruled out of the start of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand because of an abdominal injury, Chopra said that the Men in Blue already have an “automatic” replacement available.
Tilak Varma injury opens door as Aakash Chopra pushes Shreyas Iyer’s T20I return
The cricket pandit believes that India should bring Shreyas Iyer straight back into the T20I squad without any second thought for the upcoming T20I series against the Black Caps. Tilak’s injury has created a gap in the middle order at a time when the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is close.
Given that Chopra feels this is not the time to experiment or shuffle the batting order, saying the team already has enough openers and does not need to push anyone new at the top, and Shreyas Iyer fits perfectly into the middle-order role.
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The former Indian batter further pointed out that Iyer is experienced, understands pressure situations, and is already in good form. Notably, Iyer has already played 51 T20Is for India and scored over 1100 runs, apart from establishing himself as one of the best batters in the IPL.
He fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote: Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra said in a video posted on X: “Who can it be? Shreyas Iyer. ‘Sarpanch’ Sahab should be picked automatically. He is already playing well and scored in the Vijay Hazare Trophy too. Even when Iyer was not picked in the Asia Cup, it felt slightly unfair, but it was understandable. But there is an opportunity for a middle-order role here. He is also an experienced player and set the IPL on fire. He fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote.”
Chopra also pointed out that players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad are all openers, and that is not what the team needs right now. India needs someone who can settle the innings, control the middle overs, and finish strong, and Chopra feels Iyer is the best choice.
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Chopra Makes Strong Case for Iyer’s Return
The commentator further explained, “India does not need an opener; they need a middle-order batter.” However, he admitted that there are other options available for the middle-order role, like Riyan Parag and Jitesh Sharma, but yet he will go with Iyer.
Chopra signed off by saying, “Riyan Parag could also be one candidate. He was part of the T20I side before and can also bowl. If India is looking for a multi-skilled player, Parag could be that guy. But my vote is for Shreyas Iyer. I would place Parag at No. 2. Jitesh Sharma might have an outside chance, though India does not need three wicketkeepers.”
Notably, the BCCI confirmed that Tilak Varma had surgery for his abdominal issue in Rajkot on January 7. He was discharged the next day, and his condition is stable. The star batter will travel back to Hyderabad on Friday (January 9).
