A Stellar IPL 2025 Campaign

Shreyas Iyer has been a standout performer in the Indian Premier League (IPL), particularly in the 2025 season, where he led Punjab Kings to their first final in over a decade. Amassing 604 runs in 17 matches at an impressive average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 175.07, Iyer showcased his ability to anchor and accelerate innings with finesse. His six half-centuries and a highest score of 97 not out underlined his consistency and flair, placing him among the top run-scorers of the tournament. Beyond his batting, Iyer’s leadership was pivotal, guiding a franchise that hadn’t reached such heights in years, cementing his reputation as a sharp tactician and a clutch performer under pressure.

A Proven Track Record Across Formats

Iyer’s credentials extend beyond the IPL. In the 2025 Champions Trophy, he emerged as India’s leading run-scorer with 243 runs in five matches, playing a crucial role in the team’s title triumph. His T20I career, though not as extensive, boasts 1,104 runs in 51 matches at an average of 30.66 and a strike rate of 136.12, with a match-winning 53 in his last T20I against Australia in 2023. Domestically, Iyer has led Mumbai to success in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and contributed to their Ranji Trophy and Irani Cup victories, proving his mettle across formats. His ability to adapt and deliver in high-stakes situations makes his exclusion from the Asia Cup 2025 squad all the more perplexing.

The Asia Cup Exclusion: A Shocking Decision

Despite his red-hot form, Iyer was left out of India’s 15-member Asia Cup squad and the five standby players, announced on August 19, 2025, for the T20 tournament in the UAE. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s explanation—that only 15 players could be picked and Iyer would have to “wait for his chance”—failed to quell the uproar. Fans and experts alike took to social media, labeling the decision as unfair and questioning the selection process. The inclusion of players like Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube over Iyer, who outperformed many in the IPL, fueled speculation about favoritism and a lack of transparency in the selection criteria.

Maninder Singh’s Critique and the Broader Debate

Former Indian spinner Maninder Singh voiced strong disapproval, calling Iyer’s omission “unfair” to a player in “excellent rhythm” with a “perfect understanding of the game.” Singh, who once tipped Iyer as a future India captain, expressed bafflement at the selectors’ decision, suggesting it could dent the batter’s confidence. Other cricket luminaries, including Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Dinesh Karthik, echoed similar sentiments, questioning why a player of Iyer’s caliber, with proven leadership and form, was overlooked. The debate has spotlighted broader issues of selection consistency, with some, like former coach Abhishek Nayar, hinting at possible personal biases influencing decisions.

What Lies Ahead for Shreyas Iyer?

Iyer’s response to the snub has been characteristically composed, emphasizing resilience and team-first values. As he prepares to lead India A against Australia A in September 2025, Iyer has an opportunity to let his bat do the talking. With the T20 World Cup 2026 looming, his consistent performances could force the selectors to reconsider. For now, the cricketing world watches, hoping this talented batter and leader gets the chance he deserves.

Read Also: UAE’s Alishan Sharafu Gears Up for Asia Cup 2025 Clash Against India’s Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah

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