The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, and Shreyas Iyer's exclusion has raised eyebrows. Despite his strong performances, particularly in the recent IPL season, the selectors have advised him to "stay patient". While he may not be part of the Asia Cup squad, there are indications that the BCCI sees him as a valuable asset and a potential leader in the future.

Iyer's exclusion is primarily attributed to squad composition and the availability of other talented players in the middle order. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained that it was a difficult decision, emphasizing that it wasn't due to any fault of Iyer's, but rather a matter of finding the right balance and combination for the team. Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma have solidified their positions at No. 3 and No. 4, respectively, leaving limited opportunities for Iyer in those slots.

Despite missing out on the Asia Cup, Iyer remains a significant part of India's plans. His recent comeback from a back injury that required surgery demonstrates his resilience and determination. After spending nearly five months recovering, Iyer worked extensively at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to regain his fitness. He even played through pain during the Test series against Australia, showcasing his commitment to the team.

Iyer's journey back to competitive cricket has been challenging. He described his injury as a "roller-coaster ride," with pain persisting for three months after surgery. However, with the support of his friends, family, and the support staff at the NCA, he persevered and regained his strength and range of motion.

Iyer's leadership qualities are also highly regarded. He has captained the Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, leading both teams to the final. In the 2025 IPL season, he captained Punjab Kings and amassed 604 runs with a strike rate of 175.07. This performance further solidified his reputation as a dynamic and impactful player.

While Iyer may not be in the Asia Cup squad, the message from the BCCI is clear: he remains an integral part of their future plans and is viewed as a leader. As Irfan Pathan wisely advised, Iyer needs to remain patient and continue honing his skills, as opportunities will undoubtedly arise.