The exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from India's Asia Cup 2025 squad has ignited a storm of controversy, with former cricketers and experts questioning the selectors' rationale. Sanjay Manjrekar has emerged as one of the most vocal critics, expressing his shock and disbelief at Iyer's omission. He has openly slammed the decision, suggesting that Iyer has been "seriously wronged" by the selectors' choice to pick Shubman Gill over him.
Manjrekar argues that Iyer's recent form and performances, particularly in the IPL 2025, warrant his inclusion in the Asia Cup squad. Iyer captained the Punjab Kings to the IPL 2025 final, amassing 604 runs at an impressive strike rate of 175.07. Manjrekar highlighted Iyer's consistency, high average (over 50), and match-winning contributions, emphasizing that no other batter displayed such form throughout the IPL season.
Manjrekar also pointed out that Iyer had been previously dropped from the Indian team for not playing enough domestic cricket, but he responded strongly by performing well in the ODI series against England and carrying that form into the IPL. According to Manjrekar, Iyer's non-selection despite his outstanding performances is baffling.
Adding to the controversy, Manjrekar questioned the selectors' tendency to reward players for performances in one format by including them in another, arguing that it "doesn't make any cricketing sense". He seemed to be alluding to Shubman Gill's inclusion, suggesting that Gill's Test performances were being prioritized over Iyer's T20 form. Manjrekar questioned Gill's inclusion as vice-captain, given that Gill hadn't played a T20I since July 2024.
Several other experts have echoed Manjrekar's sentiments. Former Australia wicketkeeper Brad Haddin described Iyer's omission as an "extraordinary selection," admitting his bafflement at the decision. Haddin emphasized Iyer's leadership qualities and his ability to perform under pressure, stating that he even thought Iyer was in contention to be captain. AB de Villiers also expressed surprise, calling the decision "weird" and suggesting that non-cricketing factors might be at play. De Villiers speculated about team dynamics, suggesting that an abundance of leaders or concerns about off-field contributions could have influenced the decision.
Mohammad Azharuddin called Iyer's exclusion a "big surprise," while Ravichandran Ashwin labeled it "sad and unfair". Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar questioned India's planning, insisting that Iyer deserves a place in at least the top 20 players for the Asia Cup.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar, when asked about Iyer's omission, stated that it wasn't due to any fault of Iyer's, but rather a matter of squad composition. He explained that only 15 players could be selected, and Iyer would have to wait for his chance. However, this explanation has failed to quell the criticism, with many questioning the logic behind prioritizing other players over an in-form Iyer. A BCCI source claimed that a seasoned player like Iyer couldn't be named in the reserves and stressed that the selectors held no grudges against him, but this has done little to assuage the outrage.
The controversy surrounding Iyer's exclusion highlights the complexities and challenges of squad selection, where difficult decisions must be made based on various factors, including form, team balance, and perceived potential. However, in this instance, many feel that Iyer's recent performances and leadership credentials have been overlooked, leading to a sense that he has been unfairly treated.
