Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticised the selectors for leaving out Shreyas Iyer from India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad. Ashwin described
the omission as ‘sad and unfair’, especially given the recent performances of Iyer.
Iyer’s absence surprised many, particularly since he was not awarded a central contract earlier this year and had been dropped from all formats. However, he made a successful comeback during the ICC Champions Trophy, performing well in the middle order. After consistent performances in domestic cricket, Iyer regained his central contract, but the selectors have once again overlooked him.
Ashwin expressed his disappointment with Iyer’s snub, highlighting that the batter proved his worth by leading Punjab Kings (PBKS) to their first IPL final since 2014. He also reminded that Iyer had earlier guided Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the 2024 IPL title under Gautam Gambhir’s mentorship and had successfully overcome his weakness against short balls.
“What has Shreyas done wrong? He did brilliantly well for KKR, making them win. He was sent into the auction. He then took Punjab to the finals for the first time since 2014. He overcame the short ball problem. He was hitting the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Jasprit Bumrah with ease in the IPL. Look at the credentials of Shreyas. He went out of the team. But came in the Champions Trophy and did amazing batting. He won and gave it to you. I am just extremely sad for him and Yashasvi Jaiswal; it is extremely unfair,” Ashwin said on his YouTube Channel..
Not fair to bring in Shubman Gill: Ashwin
Ashwin opined that Iyer did everything required to earn a spot in the national team, and that ignoring a player of such high calibre sends the wrong message. He also spoke out regarding the omission of Yashasvi Jaiswal from the 15-member squad, calling it unfair, especially given that Shubman Gill, who was only a standby player in the T20 World Cup 2024, has now been promoted to India’s vice-captain for the Asia Cup 2025.
“When you have Jaiswal as your third opener, you have brought Shubman Gill in the team by removing a person from the World Cup winning squad. I mean, I am happy for Shubman but I am very, very sad for both Shreyas and Jaiswal. It’s just not fair on both,” Ashwin said.
Iyer will be seen playing next in the Duleep Trophy 2025. He will be playing for West Zone, where star all-rounder Shardul Thakur has been named the captain in a strong squad, and Iyer is likely to play a key role in the tournament.
