Overview:
Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar expressed his disbelief over Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion.
Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin expressed his surprise at Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion from the 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.
“Shreyas Iyer left out of the squad. Big surprise,” Azharuddin wrote on X.
Shreyas Iyer left out of the squad. Big surprise. #AsiaCup2025 @ShreyasIyer15
— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) August 19, 2025
Iyer, who had an excellent IPL season and has done well in domestic tournaments, was not considered for the continental tournament, scheduled to take place in the UAE from September 9 to 28. On the other hand, Shubman Gill, was away from T20Is for more than a year, made his return and was named vice-captain.
R Ashwin and Abhishek Nayar voice disappointment over Shreyas Iyer’s snub
Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin described the decision as sad and unfair.
“Selection is a thankless job, and unfortunately, someone has to be left out. However, I really hope someone has spoken to Shreyas and Jaiswal. I feel sad for them. It’s not fair,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin also praised Iyer’s recent form. “He has managed to overcome the short-ball issue. In the IPL, he was comfortably taking on bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and Jasprit Bumrah. He played exceptionally well for KKR, helping them secure wins, and then took Punjab to the finals for the first time since 2014. So what has he done wrong?”
Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar expressed his disbelief over Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion.
“I don’t know why Shreyas Iyer is out. I’m not even referring to the 15 players but I am talking about top 20 players. It clearly indicates that Shreyas Iyer is not part of the plans,” he said.