The exclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal from India's Asia Cup 2025 squad has stirred debate, with veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin expressing his disappointment and questioning the selection logic. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the 15-member squad for the continental tournament, which is set to begin on September 9 in the UAE.

Ashwin voiced his concerns on his YouTube channel, "Ash Ki Baat," stating it was "not fair" to leave out Jaiswal. He alluded to the inclusion of Shubman Gill, who has been named vice-captain, and questioned the grounds for Jaiswal's omission, especially considering his performance in the recent IPL season. Ashwin questioned that if Gill was selected based on recent form, the same logic should have been applied to Jaiswal.

Jaiswal had an impressive IPL season, amassing 559 runs for the Rajasthan Royals at an average of 43.00 and a strike rate of 159.71. He was also part of India's T20 World Cup-winning squad in the previous year as a reserve opener. In his T20I career, Jaiswal has scored 723 runs in 23 matches, including a century and five fifties, with a strike rate exceeding 164.

According to Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, the choice for the opening slot was between Abhishek Sharma and Jaiswal, with Gill's place being certain. Agarkar said that Sharma's ability to bowl gave him an edge. He acknowledged Jaiswal's omission was "unfortunate" and that he might have to wait for another opportunity.

Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal also expressed his surprise at Jaiswal's exclusion, despite his impressive IPL 2025 form. Jaiswal has been named as one of the standby players for the tournament.

Ashwin also criticized the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from the squad, calling it "sad and unfair". Iyer had a strong IPL season, scoring 604 runs at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 175, leading his team to the final. Ashwin highlighted Iyer's Champions Trophy performance and his overall credentials. He also pointed out Iyer's ability to handle fast bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and Jasprit Bumrah with ease in the IPL.

Iyer last played a T20I for India against Australia in December 2023. Despite his impressive IPL performance and leadership record, he was not included in the main squad or the reserve list. Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar criticized the selectors' decision, suggesting that Iyer is no longer in their T20 plans.

The Asia Cup squad announcement has triggered discussions about India's overflowing talent pool and the tough decisions the selectors have to make. While some experts and fans have questioned the exclusion of players like Jaiswal and Iyer, others believe the selected squad has the right balance and potential to win the tournament.