Shreyas Iyer snubbed from Asia Cup, Pathan backs return

Post by : Jyoti Singh

Photo: Reuters

Shreyas Iyer Snubbed from Asia Cup, Pathan Backs Return. The Indian cricket team’s squad announcement for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 created shockwaves across the cricketing world. Among the most surprising decisions taken by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee was the exclusion of middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer despite his strong record in the T20 format.

The omission has raised questions, especially since Iyer has been in good touch and has impressive numbers in T20 internationals. Fans, analysts, and former players have all weighed in on the decision. While many were disappointed, one of India’s former all-rounders, Irfan Pathan expressed faith that Iyer will not only return to the T20 setup but also become a key part of India’s leadership group in the future.

Shreyas Iyer’s Numbers in T20 Cricket

Since India’s last T20 World Cup triumph, Shreyas Iyer has featured in 26 T20 international matches. During this period, he has scored 949 runs at a remarkable average of 49.94 and an outstanding strike rate of 179.73. His contributions include:

• 1 century

• 7 half-centuries

• A highest score of 130 not out

These numbers put him among the most consistent and destructive Indian batters in the shortest format of the game. For many fans, this makes his absence from the Asia Cup squad difficult to understand.

Strong IPL Season, Yet No Selection

Iyer’s omission is even more surprising when considering his form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) earlier this year. He had a fiery campaign with the bat, consistently scoring runs and playing the role of a reliable middle-order anchor while also accelerating when needed.

With the Asia Cup on the horizon, there was widespread belief that his IPL form would secure him a comeback into the T20 squad. However, when the selectors finalised the squad, his name was missing.

Irfan Pathan’s Support for Iyer

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan, known for his candid views, was quick to share his thoughts. Taking to his official social media handle on X (formerly Twitter), Pathan wrote:

There is no doubt in my mind that Shreyas Iyer will not only be in the T20 side, but he will be part of the leadership group too. Patience is the key for him at the moment.

Pathan’s words show his belief that Iyer has what it takes to not just play for India in T20 cricket but also to take up leadership responsibilities in the future. This backing is significant, given Pathan’s experience as a former player who understands the pressures of international cricket.

Past Challenges for Iyer

Shreyas Iyer’s cricketing journey has not been without hurdles. Over the last few years, he has struggled with form and fitness issues at crucial moments. Injuries have kept him out of important tournaments, and competition for middle-order spots has been fierce, with several talented youngsters emerging.

Still, whenever he has been fit and selected, Iyer has proven himself with consistent performances. His ability to handle pace and spin, combined with his adaptability across formats, makes him a valuable asset for the team.

India’s Asia Cup Campaign

India will begin their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on September 10 in Dubai. The tournament promises high-voltage encounters, including the much-awaited clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14 also in Dubai.

Following this, India will play their final group-stage fixture against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.

If India finishes at the top of Group A all their Super 4 stage matches will be played in Dubai. However, if they finish second, then one match will be played in Abu Dhabi, and the remaining two will take place in Dubai.

The Super 4 stage is scheduled from September 20 to 26 with the grand final to be held in Dubai on September 28.

What This Snub Means for Iyer

Being left out of such an important tournament is undoubtedly a blow for Shreyas Iyer. For any player, missing an Asia Cup means losing the chance to prove oneself on a big stage, especially with the T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon.

However, Iyer’s statistics and recent form suggest that his international career is far from over. With the support of experts like Irfan Pathan and the clear evidence of his ability, it may only be a matter of time before selectors recall him.

Iyer’s task now will be to remain patient, continue scoring heavily in domestic cricket and the IPL, and stay fit to grab opportunities when they come.

Leadership Potential

One of the standout points from Irfan Pathan’s comment is his belief in Iyer’s leadership qualities. Over the years, Iyer has captained his IPL franchise with calmness and tactical awareness. He has shown that he can guide a team under pressure, handle senior players, and inspire youngsters.

In a time when India is constantly searching for strong leaders across formats, Iyer’s captaincy skills could prove vital in the future. Pathan’s backing suggests that within cricketing circles, there is recognition of Iyer’s potential not just as a batsman but as a leader.

The Bigger Picture

The Asia Cup squad announcement shows the challenges selectors face in choosing from India’s deep talent pool. With so many batters in contention for limited spots, tough decisions are inevitable. Players like Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, and Sanju Samson add to the competition, making it difficult to accommodate everyone.

Still, leaving out a player with Iyer’s record and current form will always raise eyebrows. For fans, it is a reminder of the uncertainty of selection and the importance of timing and consistency in international cricket.

Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion from the Asia Cup 2025 squad has shocked fans and experts alike. Despite strong T20 numbers and an excellent IPL season, he finds himself on the sidelines. Yet, the support from figures like Irfan Pathan shows that his career in the format is far from over.

Patience, as Pathan advised, may indeed be the key. Iyer has the numbers, the talent, and the leadership qualities to make a strong comeback. For now, he must wait for his chance, while India heads into the Asia Cup with hopes of another trophy.

As the tournament unfolds, many will watch not only India’s campaign but also Shreyas Iyer’s journey off the field—because one thing is certain: his story in T20 cricket is not finished yet.