The BCCI has announced India’s 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, with Suryakumar Yadav as captain. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra questioned why Shreyas Iyer was left out of the team for this big tournament. However, he mentioned that Iyer is likely to be part of India’s squad for the T20 World Cup next year, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The Asia Cup 2025 will take place in the UAE from September 9 to 28. The squad was revealed on Tuesday, August 19, and Iyer’s absence was one of the biggest surprises. Chopra said Iyer has already done enough to deserve a place, and if he keeps performing well in ODIs and domestic cricket, he will surely be considered for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
“Shreyas Iyer’s absence is a huge talking point. What else does he need to do to prove himself? He scored over 600 runs in the IPL, led his team to the final, made runs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, played in the Ranji Trophy, and even won the Champions Trophy. As a player, that’s all you can really do,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
He said, “This is only the Asia Cup squad. Don’t link it with the World Cup because India will play 15 T20Is before that. A lot can change in those matches. If Shreyas Iyer keeps scoring runs in ODIs, he will definitely get back into the team. I strongly believe Shreyas Iyer will be part of India’s T20 World Cup squad.”
“No Clarity on Shreyas Iyer’s Future,” Says Aakash Chopra
Chopra was also surprised that Shreyas Iyer was not even included in the five reserve players for the Asia Cup 2025. The former cricketer and now commentator said that leaving him out of the 20-member squad gives a negative message. He felt that the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, could have easily kept Iyer among the reserve players.
Shreyas Iyer’s name is not even included in the five reserve players, which is quite surprising. It makes sense that he was not picked in the main 15, since he doesn’t fit into the playing XI right now. The selectors preferred lower-order batting options instead, like Shivam Dube, while Rinku Singh has been given another chance. According to Chopra, that part is understandable and expected.
“Still, the selectors could have at least kept him in the list of reserve players, where they included Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Prasidh Krishna. His name could have been added there, but it wasn’t. This sends a negative message. There is no clear communication about Shreyas’ situation,” he said in conclusion.
FAQ
Why was Shreyas Iyer left out of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad?
The selectors did not include him in the main squad or even among the reserves, though the exact reason is unclear.
Who raised concerns about Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion?
A former Indian cricketer expressed disappointment, saying Iyer’s absence, even from the reserves, sends a negative signal.
Which players were named as reserves for Asia Cup 2025?
Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Prasidh Krishna were included as reserve players for the tournament.
How has the former cricketer described the situation?
He stated that the lack of clarity around Shreyas Iyer’s omission creates doubt and reflects poorly on communication.