Shreyas Iyer Misses Out on Asia Cup 2025 Squad Despite Blazing T20 Form
In a move that has surprised fans and pundits alike, Shreyas Iyer has been left out of India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025, to be played in the UAE. The tournament begins on September 9, with India set to open its campaign a day later. For many, this competition is seen as the first major step toward building momentum for the T20 World Cup in February 2026.
Speaking about the decision, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar said:
“It’s no fault of his (Shreyas). Got to tell me who he can replace? At the moment, will have to wait for his chance.”
A Shocking Omission
The exclusion feels harsh considering Iyer’s sparkling form in the shortest format over the last two seasons. In the IPL 2025, he smashed over 600 runs for Punjab Kings at a strike rate of 175.07 — the third-best ever for a batter with 600-plus runs in a single season. Only Chris Gayle (2011) and Suryakumar Yadav (2023) have managed better.
His fearless approach, especially against spin, has made him one of the most reliable middle-order batters in T20 cricket. Fans expected him to walk into India’s Asia Cup squad, but the selectors chose to stick with their settled core.
A Captain’s Touch
Beyond his batting, Iyer’s leadership credentials have only grown stronger. He led Kolkata Knight Riders to their first IPL title in 10 years (2024), guided Mumbai to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and captained SoBo Mumbai Falcons to the final of the Mumbai T20 League. This year, he also took Punjab Kings all the way to the IPL 2025 final.
It’s not just white-ball success either. Iyer was part of Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy win (2023–24), followed it up with an Irani Cup victory, and played a big role in India’s Champions Trophy triumph earlier this year.
Still Fresh in T20Is
Iyer’s omission feels even tougher to digest because his last T20I innings for India was a match-winning one. Against Australia in Bengaluru, he scored a gritty 53 in difficult conditions, steering India to victory. That performance now seems a distant memory as he waits for another chance to don the India jersey.
What Next?
For now, Shreyas Iyer will have to bide his time. His form, numbers, and leadership all point to a player at the peak of his powers, but with India’s middle order crowded, the selectors appear unwilling to tinker.
Still, if he continues in the same vein, it seems only a matter of time before he forces his way back into India’s plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
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