Why Did Shreyas Iyer Get Left Out of India’s Asia Cup Squad?
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Synopsis
The exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from India's Asia Cup squad has sparked disbelief among cricket enthusiasts. Former coach Abhishek Nayar shares his thoughts on this surprising decision, questioning the rationale behind it. With Shubman Gill's inclusion and implications for Sanju Samson, this article delves deep into the selectors' choices and the future of Indian cricket.
Key Takeaways
- Abhishek Nayar questions Shreyas Iyer's exclusion.
- Shubman Gill's inclusion raises eyebrows.
- Iyer's impressive IPL stats contrast with his exclusion.
- Aakash Chopra suggests implications for Sanju Samson.
- Selectors' decisions signal a shift in priorities.
New Delhi, Aug 19 (NationPress) Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar expressed his disbelief over the omission of Shreyas Iyer from the Asia Cup squad, which was revealed at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai on Tuesday.
The selectors surprised many by including Test team captain Shubman Gill in the squad, despite him having missed recent T20I matches. Chief selector Ajiot Agarkar justified Iyer’s exclusion, stating it was 'no fault of his. Nor is it ours.'
Nayar stated, 'I can’t comprehend what justification there could be for Shreyas Iyer not being part of the 20-member squad. This exclusion sends a clear message that Iyer is not in the selectors’ plans, at least regarding T20s,' during an interview with JioHotstar.
Despite scoring 604 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 175 in IPL 2025 and leading the Punjab Kings to the finals in Ahemdabad, Iyer found himself outside the final 15.
The inclusion of Gill comes on the heels of a stellar IPL 2025 season with the Gujarat Titans, where he led his team to the playoffs, amassing 650 runs in 15 innings at an average of 50 and a strike rate of 155.87. His T20I statistics are equally impressive, with 578 runs in 21 matches at an average of 30.42 and a strike rate of 139.27, highlighting his prowess with one century and three fifties. Gill stands out as one of the few Indians to have achieved centuries across all three international formats.
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra commented that Gill’s inclusion 'determines the fate' of wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson, suggesting he may be left out of the playing XI.
'India seems to be gravitating towards an all-format captaincy. With Shubman Gill back, Sanju Samson is likely to be excluded from the playing XI. You won't drop Tilak Varma or Hardik Pandya, meaning Samson will likely sit out, with Jitesh Sharma making a return. This selection clearly prioritizes batting slots over individual personalities. With Gill stepping in as vice-captain, he will certainly play and open the batting, effectively pushing Sanju Samson out of the XI,' Chopra remarked on JioHotstar.
Point of View
I stand with our national cricketing interests. The selection process must be scrutinized, and questions should be raised when players of Iyer’s caliber are left out. Our focus must remain on ensuring that selections are made based on merit, performance, and the future of Indian cricket. Transparency and fairness in these decisions are paramount for the trust of fans and players alike.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind Shreyas Iyer's exclusion?
The chief selector Ajiot Agarkar mentioned that Iyer's exclusion was 'no fault of his. Nor is it ours.' However, many, including Abhishek Nayar, question the rationale behind leaving him out of the 20-member squad.
Who was included in place of Shreyas Iyer?
Shubman Gill was included in the squad, despite having missed recent T20I matches, raising questions about the selectors' criteria.
What were Iyer's performance stats in IPL 2025?
Shreyas Iyer scored 604 runs at a strike rate of 175 in IPL 2025 and led the Punjab Kings to the final.
How did Shubman Gill perform in IPL 2025?
Shubman Gill had an impressive IPL 2025, scoring 650 runs in 15 innings at an average of 50 and a strike rate of 155.87.
What does this exclusion mean for the future of Sanju Samson?
Aakash Chopra suggests Gill's inclusion may seal Sanju Samson's fate in the playing XI, as the team seems to prioritize batting slots over individual players.
