It was a surprise for many cricket fans when Shreyas Iyer didn’t make the cut for India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad, which kicks off on September 9 in the UAE. The middle-order star has now spoken out, admitting it was frustrating to miss out—but he’s keeping his focus firmly on the bigger picture.
“I Deserve a Spot in the Playing XI”
On an iQOOO podcast, Iyer didn’t hide his disappointment. “It’s only frustrating when you know that you deserve to be in the team, in the playing XI. That time, it is frustrating,” he said.
But he was quick to add a mature perspective. “At the same time, when you know someone is performing consistently for the team, you support them. The ultimate goal is for the team to win, and when the team is winning, everyone is happy.”
Staying Focused and True to Your Work
Even though missing the squad stings, Iyer says it hasn’t changed how he prepares or his work ethic. “Integrity is key. You have to keep doing your work ethically, even when no one is watching. That’s what really matters,” he explained.
Iyer has had a phenomenal year domestically too. He led Punjab Kings (PBKS) to a runners-up finish in IPL 2025, scoring 604 runs in 17 matches at an average over 50, with a strike rate above 175—including six fifties.
Champions Trophy Memories Still Fresh
For Iyer, the high of winning the ICC Champions Trophy for India earlier this year is still unforgettable. “Winning the Champions Trophy was the best feeling ever,” he said. “Success depends a lot on preparation. When you prepare properly, what happens on the field is just a reflection of what you’ve done off it.”
Next Step: Leading India A
Though he’s missing the Asia Cup, Iyer has been named captain of India A for the upcoming two-match red-ball series against Australia A, starting September 16 in Lucknow. The team has seen different leaders recently, with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Abhimanyu Easwaran taking the reins on previous tours.
Even though he won’t be featuring in the Asia Cup, Shreyas Iyer seems ready to channel his energy into leadership and performance with India A, proving that resilience is as important as talent.
