Why Shreyas Iyer Missed Asia Cup? AB De Villiers Points To Team Room
Shreyas Iyer Asia Cup Snub Sparks Debate As AB De Villiers Questions Team Call
Shreyas Iyer’s surprise omission from India’s 15-man squad for the 2025 Asia Cup has set social media alight. The latest voice to weigh in is former South Africa captain AB de Villiers, who hinted that the decision might be about dressing-room dynamics rather than batting form.
AB de Villiers’ View
During a live chat on X, de Villiers called the move “weird” and guessed that selectors preferred players who “add value in the team room.” He stressed he was only speculating but said that, when faced with a 50-50 choice, he always picked the cricketer who lifted squad morale. De Villiers wondered aloud if Iyer’s strong leadership style could clash with others already in the side.
Iyer’s Recent Form At A Glance
Competition | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Notable Feat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IPL 2025 | 17 | 604 | 50.33 | 175.1 | Led PBKS to the final |
Champions Trophy 2025 | 5 | 243 | 48.60 | 137.5 | India’s top run-getter |
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 | 9 | 345 | 43.12 | 188.5 | Two match-winning fifties |
With numbers like these, many fans assumed Iyer would walk into the Asia Cup squad—or at least the standby list.
What Selectors Have Said
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained that only 15 names could be chosen and “Shreyas didn’t fit in right now.” A BCCI insider later added that placing “a seasoned player like Iyer” in the reserves would be unfair because “if you pick him, he plays.”
Off-Field Factors Under The Microscope
De Villiers’ comments highlight an area rarely discussed publicly:
Team-room energy – coaches often favour cricketers who keep spirits high during long tournaments.
Leadership surplus – India’s current squad already features Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya in senior roles; adding another strong voice could muddle hierarchy.
Fitness history – Iyer missed chunks of 2024 with a back issue; the medical team may still be cautious.
None of these points are confirmed reasons, but they echo whispers around the selection table.
What Lies Ahead For Iyer
India play ten T20Is after the Asia Cup—five in Australia and five at home against South Africa—followed by the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Strong performances there could reopen doors for next year’s T20 World Cup. For now, the 30-year-old must watch the continental showpiece from afar while questions about “team player” qualities swirl.