Legendary spinner R Ashwin believes Shreyas Iyer deserves a spot in India’s squad for the 2025 Asia Cup. The right-handed batter last featured in a T20I in December 2023, scoring 53 off 37 balls in Bengaluru. Ashwin acknowledged that securing a place in the Indian team won’t be easy for Iyer, noting that many Men in Blue have been performing strongly.
He stressed that if the selectors do include Iyer for the continental tournament, the team management should ensure he bats at No. 3. Speaking in his recent YouTube video, Ashwin stated (at 2:25):
“If you look at it very logically, there is nothing much to talk about. The team almost picks itself, but if there can be some surprise, I’m genuinely speaking, I’ve said this before as well, I think Shreyas Iyer deserves to be in that side. But even if Shreyas Iyer makes the cut, it would be a bit of a surprise because every guy who played in the T20 has performed. If Shreyas Iyer has to play, he has to bat at No. 3.”
Ashwin noted that Iyer was in great form during IPL 2025 and was among India’s top performers in their Champions Trophy-winning campaign. With both tournaments held in the UAE, he said Iyer is familiar with the conditions. Ashwin added (at 10:23):
“If I am selecting Shreyas Iyer, I would want him to bat at No. 3, the place where he expressed himself. He was unstoppable; nobody could stop him throughout the IPL. He gave a tough time to both spinners and fast bowlers.”
“Having batted brilliantly in the Champions Trophy and being familiar with the conditions, Shreyas Iyer’s form and momentum make him a strong case for inclusion in the squad.”
“Selection Committee’s Toughest Call”- R Ashwin On Iyer, Rinku & Dube
R Ashwin said that India’s selection committee faces a tough decision in picking one among Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, and Rinku Singh. He added that Dube remains a strong contender, having been part of the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning team. The experienced spinner mentioned in the same video (at 22:10):
“Shivam Dube was also part of the T20 World Cup-winning squad. So, he also has to be given continuity. Shreyas Iyer/Shivam Dube/Rinku Singh will be the biggest debate of the selection committee.”
Ashwin suggested that Dube could serve as a reserve option if Iyer is selected.
“If you are bringing Shreyas Iyer in the scheme of things, then there is no place for Shivam Dube. He can be a backup, which we can discuss,” he added.
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