Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has expressed concerns over Shreyas Iyer’s recent struggles against New Zealand ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, he has urged people not to rush to conclusions about the batter’s place at No. 4.
Iyer top-scored with 30 runs off 46 balls for the visitors but was cramped for room while facing Kyle Jamieson, who was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers in the second ODI. The right-hander could not handle the extra bounce and was caught behind by Tom Latham.
Iyer has had his issues with the short ball in the past and was also dismissed in the series opener on a short delivery.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra admitted that Iyer’s performances on the New Zealand tour have raised doubts. However, he pointed out that the right-hander has previously scored runs in overseas conditions and improved his game against short-pitched deliveries.
“It’s a slight concern. Whether it’s serious, we will find out in good time. I feel you should wait a little because it’s not like he hasn’t scored runs overseas. It’s not like he hasn’t improved his game against the short ball,” Chopra said.
The former India opener further explained that Iyer’s recent difficulties against New Zealand should not necessarily be viewed as a permanent weakness.
“This New Zealand tour is looking like a slight antithesis. It seems like he is having more difficulties, but will it be like that always? I am not so sure. So, let’s wait and watch a little to see how it unfolds,” he observed.
Adding further, Chopra noted that Shreyas Iyer’s ODI numbers have dropped in the recent past.
“It’s true that if you look at Shreyas Iyer’s numbers up to 2025 and after 2025, his average has almost halved, and the way he is getting out doesn’t look good either. He gets into awkward positions,” he said.
The third ODI between India and New Zealand will be played at Seddon Park, Hamilton, on Tuesday.
