After struggling against pace in the Bengaluru Test, India fell victim to spin in the ongoing Pune Test against New Zealand. The hosts’ batting woes continued as they failed to adapt to the spinning conditions, raising the question of whether Shreyas Iyer’s inclusion might have bolstered the batting lineup.

Shreyas Iyer Known for his ability to handle rank turners, Iyer could have been the stabilizing force India needed. However, Iyer’s recent history with injuries, particularly to his back and shoulder, has negatively impacted his form.

He has been in and out of the Test squad, struggling to make an impact following an impressive 87-run innings against Bangladesh in Mirpur. After that knock, he was dropped midway through the home Test series against England and failed to reach fifty in 13 subsequent innings.

There were, however, signs of a comeback. Iyer’s recent stretch of seven consecutive multi-day matches hinted at his readiness for a return to the Test format. His form in the Ranji Trophy, where he scored a gritty 142 off 190 balls against Maharashtra, earned him praise and suggested that he was nearing full fitness.

In the Pune Test, India managed just 156 runs in their first innings as New Zealand’s spinners, Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips, exploited the turning track to devastating effect, taking nine of the 10 wickets. With the conditions favoring spin, India's batters struggled to adapt and fell prey to poor shot selection and indecisive footwork.

This is where Iyer’s presence could have made a significant difference. His proficiency against spin, combined with his ability to use his feet effectively, might have shifted the momentum in India’s favor.

Iyer's skill in cutting, pulling, and using the crease would have been valuable on a track where quick adjustments and confident shot-making were essential. If he had been part of the lineup, India might have been able to mount a more substantial first-innings total, putting pressure back on New Zealand.

The match saw New Zealand setting India a daunting target of 359 after being bowled out for 255 in their second innings. India’s response fell short as they were dismissed for 245, giving New Zealand a 113-run victory and a 2-0 series lead.

This win ended New Zealand’s 69-year wait for their first-ever Test series triumph in India, with Mitchell Santner’s 13-wicket haul earning him the Man of the Match award.

Shreyas Iyer’s last Test appearance came against England in early January, but his recent form in the domestic circuit suggests he is not far from a Test recall. With 811 runs in 14 Tests, including one century and five fifties.