Ex-India star warns of launching protest over Shreyas Iyer’s T20I spot, says 'We've seen Kohli-Rohit...'

Shreyas Iyer has proved his batting prowess over the time, the latest display of it was seen in Punjab Kings' emphatic six-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Iyer cracked a spellbinding 33-ball 69 to help PBKS chase down a massive 220-run target with seven balls to spare. Iyer is mounting a nearly undeniable case for a return to the national T20I squad, leaving selectors and head coach Gautam Gambhir with a difficult decision ahead of India's next series. Currently leading the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 2026 IPL season, Iyer has been in devastating form.

ALSO READ: Dhoni's injury update: Ex-CSK star leaks actual status on MS Dhoni's fitness ahead of KKR clash

Shreyas Iyer's scorching form in IPL 2026

This surge in performance is part of a consistent trend for the 31-year-old. In the previous IPL edition, Iyer amassed over 600 runs while leading Punjab to their first final in over a decade. Despite these achievements, he remained sidelined for the T20 World Cup, with his last official T20I appearance dating back to 2023. While he was briefly brought into the fold during the New Zealand series, it was only as an injury replacement for Tilak Varma, suggesting he is still not considered a primary pick in the shortest format.

The continued omission of such a prolific performer has drawn sharp criticism from the cricketing fraternity, most notably from former India and KKR batter Manoj Tiwary. Stunned by Iyer's ability to consistently while being ignored for national duties, Tiwary made a bold declaration, stating he would go on protest and fight if the PBKS skipper is kept out of the playing XI. As Iyer continues to dominate the IPL, the pressure on the management to reintegrate him into the national side continues to mount.