Gautam Gambhir, recently appointed as India's new head coach, has been under criticism for his selection calls ahead of the England Test series. Among the many names, former England opener Nick Knight has publicly questioned the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from the squad, calling it a missed opportunity during a crucial transition phase following the retirement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from red-ball cricket. Knight pointed out that Iyer, who has been in excellent touch across formats over the past season, should have been included in the touring party. In an interview with PTI, Knight said, “If there was ever a time for Indian cricket to cope with losing Rohit and Virat, it's now. I'm going to be brutally honest here. Shreyas Iyer should be here. That would have helped this transition a little bit more.” Shreyas has not featured in India’s Test plans since early 2023, despite consistent performances in domestic and limited-overs cricket. His absence has sparked conversations about India’s handling of experienced middle-order options in a squad now dominated by emerging talents. Read also: James Anderson to Captain Lancashire at Age 42 Iyer’s Absence and Young Batters Thrust Into Spotlight In Kohli and Rohit's absence, India’s batting is banking on youth and untested combinations. Shubman Gill takes over captaincy duties, while KL Rahul, one of the few seasoned campaigners left, is expected to anchor the top order. Sai Sudharsan, who made headlines with his domestic red-ball form, is reportedly lined up for the no.3 position. Knight added, “Sai Sudarshan, for me, he slots in at number three, Shubhman Gill at number four, and then you go from there." He praised Sudharsan’s technique, noting, “Sai is a very good player. He plays late. You'll hear that a lot during this series. Players that play the ball underneath their eyeline, by the front pad, not get out in front of you, follow the ball a little bit, play the early line, don't follow the line as it moves laterally... all those sorts of things which are key to being successful in English conditions.” Knight's remarks come just ahead of India’s five-match Test series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley. As the new World Test Championship cycle begins, the debate over Iyer’s absence continues to gain traction.