Shreyas Iyer Voices Disappointment Over Asia Cup Omission, Vows to Fight for Spot

India batter Shreyas Iyer admitted that missing out on selection for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 was frustrating, but said he remains determined to let his performances do the talking.

The 30-year-old was not named in India’s 15-man squad for the continental tournament but will captain India A in two four-day unofficial Tests against Australia A later this month.

"It is only frustrating when you know that you deserve to be in the team, in the playing XI. That time, it is frustrating," Iyer said on the iQOO podcast.

"But at the same time, when you know that someone is performing and playing consistently for the team and bringing out their best, you support them. Eventually, the goal is for the team to win and when the team is winning, everyone is happy."

Iyer’s leadership credentials have also grown in recent years. After guiding Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title in 2024, he switched to Punjab Kings, taking them all the way to the final in 2025. While they fell short of the trophy, his captaincy was widely praised, alongside his batting evolution. Iyer has added greater power-hitting range to his game, striking more boundaries in T20 cricket and showing his ability to adapt to the modern demands of the format.

The Mumbai batter, who was part of the Indian side that lifted the Champions Trophy earlier this year, said the triumph remains his career highlight. He was India’s leading run-scorer in that campaign, making 243 runs in five games at an average of 48.6, and finishing second overall in the tournament.

"Winning the ICC Champions Trophy for India was the best feeling ever," he recalled.

Despite the Asia Cup omission, Iyer stressed the importance of preparation and integrity in sustaining success at the international level.
"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," he said.
"When you prepare yourself in a certain manner, whatever happens on the ground is just a reflection of what you do off the field. If your prep is good and you don’t perform in one or two games, in the third game you are definitely going to perform. That I have experienced."

While acknowledging the disappointment of not being picked, Iyer insisted he is motivated to keep working hard to prove his place in the Indian team.