Former Cricketer and Analyst Aakash Chopra has thrown his weight behind Shreyas Iyer, insisting that the Mumbai batter should not be overlooked for the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE. With India's squad announcement around the corner, Iyer's name has become one of the hottest talking points. Not just because of his numbers, but also what he brings to the team balance.
Akash Chopra's Strong Backing:
Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, praised Iyer's performances during the Champions Trophy 2025, where he was India's go-to batter in the middle overs. No Indian player was better than him in that phase. He attacked when needed, rotated strike smartly, and eased pressure on his partners, Chopra said. He also highlighted Iyer's stellar IPL 2025 season with Punjab Kings, where he piled up 604 runs in 17 innings at an average of 50.33, including a match-winning 87* in Qualifier 2.
For Chopra, these credentials make Iyer one of the first names on the team sheet for the Asia Cup. He argued that India's T20I selections have always rewarded strong IPL form, and Iyer's recent run makes him impossible to ignore.
Why Team Needs Iyer:
From India's perspective, Shreyas Iyer's inclusion could solve one of their biggest challenges: stability in the middle order. Iyer provides the ideal balance. Someone who can absorb pressure if early wickets fall, but also accelerate and find boundaries when the platform is set. His ability to target spin in the middle overs, rotate the strike on UAE slow pitches, and guide the innings without losing the momentum is a priceless asset. Moreover, his T20I record - 1104 runs at a strike rate of 136.11 shows his consistency and adaptability at the international level.
What matters now:
The Asia Cup 2025 is not just another tournament; it is a litmus test before the 2026 T20 World Cup. India needs a reliable No. 4 or No. 5 batter who can handle pressure situations, especially against high-quality spin attacks in subcontinental conditions. Iyer's maturity, coupled with his proven IPL and Champions Trophy form, makes him a key candidate to anchor the middle order. By including Iyer, India would be addressing a long-standing issue of finding a dependable batter who bridges the gap between the top order and finishers, knowing there is a clam composed middle order pillar.
Aakash Chopra's call for Shreyar Iyer isn't just about rewarding, it's about building a balanced and flexible Indian side for the Asia Cup and Beyond. If the selectors agree, Iyer's return could strengthen India's middle order and set the tone for the road to the 2026 T20I World Cup.