Overview

• Iyer was left out of India’s confirmed 15-player T20 squad for the Asia Cup, a decision that drew fresh criticism from former players and fans.
• Chief selector Ajit Agarkar did not spell out a reason for the omission at the media briefing, instead challenging reporters to name whom Iyer should replace.
• Multiple reports say Iyer declined the offer to captain West Zone in the Duleep Trophy, after which the selectors named Shardul Thakur as captain.
• The reported decision factored in a clash between the Duleep Trophy semifinals from September 4–7 and the Asia Cup starting September 9, with Iyer said to be preparing with personal coach Pravin Amre.
• Thakur publicly backed Iyer’s resilience, while commentary highlighted Iyer’s strong IPL 2025 output as part of broader questions about the selection criteria.