Shreyas Iyer has expressed his frustration at being omitted from India's squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. The Mumbai batter, who has been a consistent performer in recent years, admitted that it's frustrating "when you know that you deserve to be in the team, in the playing XI".
Iyer's omission has sparked debate among fans and experts, especially considering his impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and his leadership capabilities. In the recent IPL 2025 season, he captained Punjab Kings (PBKS) and scored 604 runs in 17 matches at an average of 50.33, with a strike rate of 175.07. He also led PBKS to the final of the tournament. Previously, he captained Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title in 2024.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on the Asia Cup, Iyer emphasized the importance of supporting his teammates and focusing on the team's success. "But at the same time, when you know that someone is performing and playing consistently for the team and bringing their best, you support them. And eventually, the goal is for the team to win. When the team is winning, everyone is happy," he stated.
Iyer further stressed the significance of preparation and maintaining integrity, even when no one is watching. "If you don't get a chance, you have to see to it that you do your work ethically. It's not like you have to perform only when someone is watching," he said. "When you prepare yourself in a certain manner, whatever happens on the ground is just a reflection of what you do off the field. If your prep is good and you don't perform in one or two games, in the third game you are definitely going to perform. That I have experienced".
The 30-year-old was named captain of the India A team for the upcoming two four-day unofficial Tests against Australia A. The matches will be held in Lucknow in September 2025. This provides him with an opportunity to showcase his leadership and batting skills in the longer format of the game.
Iyer, who was part of the Indian side that won the Champions Trophy earlier in 2025, described the victory as the "best feeling ever". He was India's leading run-scorer in that tournament, with 243 runs in five games at an average of 48.60.
While Iyer's father expressed his disappointment at his son's omission from the Asia Cup squad, former cricketers and experts have also voiced their support for the talented batsman. Mohammad Kaif believes that the selectors and management didn't do justice to Iyer by excluding him. Irfan Pathan has backed Iyer to return to the T20 team and become a leader.
Despite the setback, Iyer remains focused on working hard and proving his worth. He understands that the ultimate goal is for the team to win, and he is prepared to contribute in any way he can.
