He dealt with a series slump ahead of the three-match ODI series against India South AfricaAs a Premier Middle Order Batter at Ranchi on 30th November Shreyas eats Unfit due to laceration injury sustained while riding in Sydney. The 29-year-old, a vitally important figure in four positions, has been hospitalized and sidelined for the foreseeable future, leaving a significant void in India’s batting line-up.
With Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Odi is yet to announce his squad, considering Iyer’s absence, fresh faces and fringe players to stake their claim for a place in the side, especially ahead of the team management’s busy international calendar. Based on recent form and potential, let’s take a look at three players who could be ideal replacements for Iyer in the Odi leg.
3 players who can replace Shreyas Iyer in Odi series against South Africa
Yashasvi Jaiswal: Aggressive top-order contender
A dynamic left-handed opener, Jaiswal has risen rapidly through the ranks of Indian cricket, cementing his place as one of the most exciting young talents across the formats. Known for fearless batting and recognition of intent, Jaiswal’s presence provides India with an explosive option at the top of the order. Already at the beginning of this year, the young people who opposed England at the beginning of this year, young people are gradually watching in more than 50 structures.
Jaiswal’s inclusion as an opener could lead to a change in the batting line-up. The 23-year-old is expected to open with the former skipper Rohit Sharmaa partnership that promises an aggressive start in the powerplay. This combination could probably see Shubman Gillmove up to the middle to provide stability in the absence of another screen’s top-order batter, Iyer.
Jaiswal’s ability to get bowlers from the start and maintain a high scoring rate makes him a valuable asset in modern Odi Cricket. His aggressive mindset and adaptability can be key in setting the tone early and easing the pressure in the middle order, especially against the South African attack.
Tilak varma: a consistent left-handed middle-order option
Tilak stands out as the most natural and likeable replacement for Shreyas Iyer in India’s Middle Order. The talented left-hander has already made a strong impression at international level with his clean hitting and ability to adapt to different match situations. His composure under pressure and knack for strike rotation make him a well-rounded batter to anchor innings or finish with authority.
Despite Tilak’s exposure in Odi Cricket, he has shown glimpses of his potential in the opportunities he has been given so far. Featuring in four ODISes, Tilak hit 68 runs, including 50, underscoring his ability to form an institution in 50 centuries. His performances in domestic cricket and India’s ‘a’ matches further strengthened his claim for a consistent role in the national setup.
More recently, Tilak turned heads in the 2025 Asia Cup where he played a key role in India’s triumph. Despite being in a T20 format tournament, he came up against Pakistan in the final against Pakistan, where he composed himself, showing character and maturity beyond his years. Those shots reflect not only his skill, but also his understanding of the game – traits that are just as valuable as a hangover.
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Riyan Parag: Empowerment all round
Parag has been in discussion for a middle-order berth in India’s ODI side thanks to his remarkable form and consistency in recent domestic white-ball tournaments. The 23-year-old has completed a remarkable transformation over the past year, going from a young prospect to a reliable match-winner. A dynamic right-handed batsman and a handy leg break bowler, Parag brings the balance of an all-rounder – often defining a team composition in modern ODI Cricket.
Parag’s recent domestic performances have been nothing short of outstanding. The leading run-getter in both the 2023 Deodhar Trophy and the 2023-24 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he also highlighted his ability to get under the batting under pressure. His aggressive yet measured approach, coupled with his improved temperament, won him wide praise from selectors and former players.
On the international front, Parag made his ODI debut for India in August 2024. Although his international career is still in its infancy, his debut performance showed his potential as a true all-rounder who can make an impact in more ways than one.
