Asia Cup 2025: Shreyas Iyer Impresses with Big Hit, Yet T20I Spot Remains Elusive

Shreyas Iyer’s Stellar Form Goes Unrewarded as T20I Doors Stay Closed.

The India selection committee’s announcement of the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 left fans scratching their heads, with several deserving names omitted. Among them, Shreyas Iyer’s absence was particularly glaring. Over the past two years, the Mumbai batter has rebuilt his game, silencing critics and proving himself as one of India’s most consistent performers.

After losing his BCCI central contract in 2024, Iyer bounced back in style by leading Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title. In 2025, he further honed his technique, particularly improving against short-pitched bowling, and delivered a sensational IPL season with Punjab Kings, scoring 604 runs in 17 innings at an average of 50.33 and six fifties. His strike rate across formats has surged, with an eye-popping 175.07 in the IPL—far above his previous best.

Despite his remarkable form and leadership credentials, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel chose not to include him in the T20I squad. Even the five reserve slots went to Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, leaving Iyer completely out of contention.

Chief selector Agarkar justified the omission by citing limited squad slots: “It’s unfortunate for Shreyas. Only 15 can be picked, and at the moment, he has to wait for his chances.” Former cricketer Abhishek Nayar also expressed disbelief, questioning why Iyer wasn’t even in the extended 20-member squad, given his IPL and ODI performances.

The Silent ODI Hero

Iyer has been a cornerstone of India’s ODI setup, amassing 530 runs at No. 4 during the 2023 World Cup and 243 runs in the victorious 2025 Champions Trophy. His leadership extends beyond the numbers; in the IPL, he has consistently put team goals above personal milestones, exemplified by selflessly letting teammates finish innings to ensure team success.

From leading Mumbai to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title to guiding franchises in the IPL finals, Iyer has shown tactical acumen and temperament, qualities any national T20I squad would value. Yet, despite these credentials, selectors remain unmoved.

The Question Remains

Iyer’s unprecedented performances—both as a batter and leader—leave one question unanswered: what more must he achieve to secure a T20I spot? While other players have been accommodated based on potential or partial performances, Iyer continues to knock on the door, waiting for recognition that seems increasingly elusive.