Tue May 27 13:46:57 UTC 2025: **Shreyas Iyer’s England Test Snub Justified by Former England Spinner Monty Panesar**

**New Delhi, India -** The omission of Shreyas Iyer from India’s Test squad for the upcoming tour of England has sparked debate, with former England spinner Monty Panesar now backing the decision. Following Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket, many expected Iyer to fill the crucial No. 4 spot. However, the selectors opted for Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair instead.

Panesar believes Iyer’s technique is ill-suited for the seaming and swinging conditions expected in England. “He is a very good player, but with the seaming and swinging conditions, I believe he is vulnerable; I don’t think he has the technique for that,” Panesar told InsideSport. He added that Iyer’s strength lies in flat, spinning conditions, not the challenging English pitches.

According to Panesar, Iyer’s quick hands and limited footwork are better suited for faster, bouncier pitches. He emphasized that in swinging conditions, Iyer’s technique would be exposed due to his lack of “soft hands” and late playing style.

Shubman Gill has been appointed as the new captain for the five-Test series against England, which begins on June 20. Gill, who has previously played as an opener and No. 3, is expected to take Kohli’s place at No. 4 in the batting order. He described leading the team as a “great honour and a big responsibility.”

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