Asia Cup 2025: Shreyas Iyer Shines but Misses Out on T20I Squad.
The India selection committee’s announcement of the 15-member Asia Cup 2025 squad sparked debate, with several notable absences—most glaringly, Shreyas Iyer. Over the past two years, Iyer has reinvented himself, proving his credentials as a match-winner and leader.
After losing his BCCI central contract in 2024, Iyer bounced back by leading Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title. In 2025, he dominated with Punjab Kings, scoring 604 runs in 17 innings at an average of 50.33, striking six fifties, and improving his short-pitch play—a previous weak point. Yet, despite these performances, he was left out of the T20I squad entirely. Even the five reserve slots went to other players, leaving Iyer without a place.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar defended the decision, saying, “Only 15 can be picked, and at the moment, he has to wait for his chances.” Former India cricketer Abhishek Nayar criticized the omission, noting Iyer’s consistent performances in IPL, ODIs, and Champions Trophy cricket.
A Silent ODI Hero
Iyer has been a vital figure in India’s ODI side, scoring 530 runs at No. 4 in the 2023 World Cup and 243 runs in the victorious 2025 Champions Trophy. His IPL leadership also underscores his value, with selfless batting and tactical acumen helping his teams reach finals and win crucial matches.
Despite all this, Iyer remains on the sidelines for T20Is. The question lingers: what more must he do to earn a place in a team willing to adjust its lineup for others, while his extraordinary form continues to be overlooked?
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