India's Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement has sparked debate and one omission has particularly caught the eye. Despite a stellar run of form in T20 cricket over the past two years, Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer has not found a place even in the 20-member standby list.
The decision has raised eyebrows, especially since the Asia Cup is serving as the build-up for India's preparations ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup next year.
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Shreyas Iyer omitted from India's Asia Cup 2025 squad
Iyer's exclusion is puzzling given his record in the shortest format. The right-hander scored over 600 runs in IPL 2025 at a strike rate of 175.07 - a tally that ranks him alongside the most destructive seasons in league history.
He has also thrived in domestic and franchise cricket - guiding teams to silverware across formats. His most recent T20I outing saw him drive a tricky chase against Australia in Bengaluru with a crucial half-century.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained that Iyer's absence was more about balance than ability. "It's no fault of his. Got to tell me who he can replace? At the moment, will have to wait for his chance," Agarkar said.
Abhishek Nayar questions selectors' call
Former cricketer and analyst Abhishek Nayar expressed disbelief at Iyer not even making the reserves.
"How come he’s not in your reserve players? He’s such a strong contender. Sometimes, selection meetings can be quite interesting. The discussions that happen there can be very revealing, but I can’t fathom or understand what reason could justify Shreyas Iyer not being part of that 20-member squad. I’m not talking about 15, I’m talking about the 20-man squad," he said.
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He suggested that selection sometimes boils down to personal preferences when several players are performing at the same level.
What does this mean for Shreyas Iyer and India?
With India building towards the T20 World Cup in early 2026, Iyer's absence could indicate a shift in thinking about his role in the shortest format. However, given his recent form and leadership success, ruling him out completely may prove premature.
The coming months will reveal whether the selectors revisit their stance.