Shreyas Iyer Likely to Return for Asia Cup 2025: Report

Middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer is reportedly on the verge of making a comeback to India’s T20 International squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to begin in the UAE from September 9.

Iyer, 29, last played a T20I for India on December 3, 2023, against Australia in Bengaluru. Since then, he has been out of favour in the shortest format, largely due to fitness issues and team combinations. However, a report by the Indian Express indicates that the selectors are considering him for the continental tournament, and that his potential inclusion is the reason why he was not named captain of the West Zone team for the Duleep Trophy.

“The reason for not naming Iyer as skipper was that the selection committee felt that he might be picked for the Asia Cup team, which is scheduled to play from September 9 onwards,” the report quoted a source as saying.

Impressive IPL Form Boosts Comeback Hopes

Iyer’s return to the radar follows an impressive showing in the IPL 2025, where he played for Punjab Kings. The right-hander amassed 604 runs in 17 matches, playing a pivotal role in helping the franchise reach the final. His consistent middle-order performances and ability to anchor innings were widely praised.

In addition to his IPL heroics, Iyer also led Mumbai to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, showcasing both form and leadership qualities.

Included in Duleep Trophy Squad but Not as Skipper

While Iyer has been included in the West Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy, selectors opted to hand the captaincy to Shardul Thakur. The squad also features Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sarfaraz Khan, and Tushar Deshpande.

The decision not to assign leadership duties to Iyer is being interpreted as a sign of his expected national duties during the Asia Cup.

Asia Cup 2025 Schedule – India’s Group Fixtures

The Asia Cup 2025, played in the T20I format, will run from September 9 to 28 in the UAE. India are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, UAE, and Oman.

India’s confirmed group matches:

🗓 September 10: vs UAE
🗓 September 14: vs Pakistan
🗓 September 19: vs Oman

If India finish in the top two, they will advance to the Super Fours, followed by the final on September 28.

A Crucial Addition to India’s Middle Order

India’s T20I middle order has struggled for consistency in recent months, often relying heavily on top-order performances. Shreyas Iyer’s potential return is expected to bring stability, experience, and firepower in the middle overs—a phase where India has been lacking clear direction.

With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 also on the horizon, the Asia Cup offers a crucial platform for players like Iyer to cement their places in the national setup.