BCCI’s Decision To Exclude Shreyas Iyer From T20I Team Faces Criticism After PBKS vs GT Heroics

Iyer’s Fiery Knock Reignites Selection Debate

Shreyas Iyer made a resounding statement in his debut match for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025, delivering an exceptional performance that left cricket fans questioning the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to exclude him from the national T20I squad. Facing Gujarat Titans (GT), Iyer smashed an unbeaten 97 off just 42 balls, proving his mettle as a top-tier T20 batsman.

A Blistering Knock That Stunned Critics

Playing with aggression and precision, Iyer dominated the Gujarat Titans’ bowling attack, smashing nine sixes and five fours. His incredible innings powered Punjab Kings to a massive 243/5, setting up an 11-run victory in their season opener.

Why Was Iyer Left Out Of The Indian T20I Squad?

Despite his impressive track record, BCCI omitted Iyer from the central contract list for 2023-24, leading to his exclusion from the Indian T20I setup. The reasons cited for his omission included:

• Inconsistent T20I performances in the past year.
• Injury concerns that sidelined him from crucial series.
• Preference for younger middle-order options like Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh.

However, Iyer’s latest performance has reignited the debate over India’s middle-order stability and whether BCCI acted too soon in overlooking him.

Former Cricketers Question Selection Policy

Several former players and analysts have openly questioned BCCI’s decision to sideline Iyer from the T20I squad.

• One veteran cricketer remarked, “Shreyas Iyer is a proven match-winner. If consistency was an issue, why does one great IPL season make other players automatic picks?”
• Another expert pointed out, “He has shown adaptability and aggression, two key elements needed in modern-day T20 cricket.”

Can Iyer Force His Way Back Into The National Team?

With the T20 World Cup approaching, Iyer’s performances in the IPL 2025 season could play a significant role in determining his return to the national squad.

Key Factors That Could Help His Comeback:

• Sustained IPL form throughout the season.
• Consistent performances against top-quality bowlers.
• A potential lack of impact from India’s current middle-order players.

The Road Ahead

Iyer’s exclusion from India’s T20I squad may have been a setback, but his response with the bat proves his hunger to reclaim his spot. If he continues to deliver impactful performances, the selectors will have no choice but to reconsider their stance.

With IPL 2025 in full swing, all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer. Will he continue to make his bat do the talking and force a national comeback? Only time will tell.

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