As India gears up to defend its Asia Cup 2025 crown, one of the biggest talking points off the field has been Shreyas Iyer’s surprising omission from the 15-member squad. The seasoned middle-order batter, who was a star in India’s victorious ICC Champions Trophy campaign earlier this year, has finally spoken out about the decision, offering fans an honest look at the emotions players experience when overlooked.
Speaking on the iQOO India podcast, Iyer admitted that it can be tough to sit out when you feel you deserve a place in the playing XI. “It is only frustrating when you know that you deserve to be in the team, in the playing XI. That time, it’s frustrating,” he said.
Yet, true to his team-first approach, Iyer emphasized the importance of supporting those selected. “At the same time, when you know that someone is performing and playing consistently for the team and bringing their best, you support them. Eventually, the goal is for the team to win, and when the team is winning, everyone is happy,” he added.
Iyer, who will now lead India A in a two-match unofficial four-day Test series against Australia A later this month, also reflected on the value of integrity and hard work, even when no one is watching. “If you don’t get a chance, you have to see to it that you do your work ethically. It’s not like you have to perform only when someone is watching. Even when no one is watching, you have to keep doing your work. That’s integrity,” he said.
The 30-year-old batter’s comments provide a glimpse into the mindset of elite cricketers who must balance personal disappointment with the collective goal of team success. Iyer also stressed the importance of preparation, noting that consistent practice helps players bounce back from occasional setbacks. “When your preparation is on point, everything on the field is just a reflection. Failures can happen once or twice, but if you’re prepared, the next game is yours to perform,” he explained.
India’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign begins against hosts UAE on September 10, followed by a high-stakes clash with arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14, and concludes with a match against Oman on September 19. While the squad is set, fans will be watching closely to see if Iyer’s next opportunity in India A translates into a strong performance and eventually a return to the senior team.
Shreyas Iyer’s candid reflections highlight not just the emotional side of cricket, but also the professional ethos that keeps India’s pool of players competitive. As the Asia Cup approaches, his story serves as a reminder of the grit and discipline behind every selection debate and on-field performance.
