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With the Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement just days away, India’s selectors face a tricky call for the T20I middle order. Amid stiff competition from rising stars like Tilak Varma and proven names such as Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav, one player’s case stands out for his form, experience and adaptability—Shreyas Iyer.
Asia Cup 2025: Here are three reasons why Shreyas Iyer should be picked in India’s T20I squad
1. Consistent performer in T20 cricket
Iyer has been one of India’s most reliable T20 batsmen in recent years. By June 2025, he had played 51 T20Is, scoring 1,104 runs at an average of 30.67 and a strike rate of 136.13, with eight fifties. He can anchor an innings and then shift gears in the death overs—a rare dual skill.
In IPL 2025, he spearheaded Punjab Kings to the final, piling up 604 runs at a strike rate of 175.07. His domestic form has been just as strong, with 281 runs at 162.42 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Crucially, Iyer’s runs have often come against high-quality bowling, proving his ability to deliver under pressure.
2. Big-Match temperament and leadership skills
Iyer thrives on the big stage. His IPL 2025 campaign not only highlighted his batting form but also showcased his leadership, guiding Punjab Kings deep into the tournament with sharp tactics and calm decision-making.
Internationally, he has handled crunch situations with composure—whether in ICC tournaments or high-stakes bilateral series. For a side aiming to fix its middle-order fragility in T20 knockout games, Iyer’s steady temperament is a priceless asset.
3. Versatility and spin-hitting expertise
Few middle-order batters offer Iyer’s tactical flexibility. He can slot in at No. 3, 4, or 5, adapting his tempo to match conditions—consolidating after early wickets or accelerating in the slog overs.
On subcontinent pitches, where spin is a decisive factor, Iyer’s ability to rotate strike and attack spinners stands out. His calculated aggression against spin-heavy attacks could be the difference in tight Asia Cup contests.
Why Shreyas Iyer over other contenders?
While Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube bring firepower, Iyer combines recent form, proven adaptability, and big-match experience. In a tournament likely to hinge on fine margins, his inclusion could provide India with the stability and tactical edge it needs.
Also READ: Here is Team India’s 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 – Predicted
