The debate over India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad has taken an interesting twist after a former Indian cricket star put forward his own alternate playing XI, naming Shreyas Iyer as the captain. The selection has sparked curiosity among fans, as the official squad announcement left out several senior names while giving opportunities to youngsters based on IPL 2025 performances.
Why An Alternate Squad?
Whenever a big tournament like the Asia Cup approaches, team selection becomes one of the most talked-about topics in Indian cricket. With the official squad heavily tilted towards youth, many former players have expressed concerns about the lack of balance and experience.
To highlight what he believed could have been a stronger and more stable team, the ex-star drew up his own alternate squad, with a blend of tried-and-tested performers and emerging talents.
Shreyas Iyer Gets The Leadership Role
The standout decision was handing the captaincy to Shreyas Iyer, a player who has consistently proven himself in the middle order across formats. Despite being left out of the official Asia Cup squad, Iyer’s leadership experience in the IPL and his ability to anchor innings reportedly impressed the former cricketer.
According to him, Iyer brings the perfect mix of calmness, tactical acumen, and batting maturity to guide a team under pressure. This alternative squad, led by Iyer, is imagined as a more balanced unit capable of competing in high-pressure Asia Cup conditions.
Key Players In The Alternate XI
While the complete squad list hasn’t been officially published, reports suggest the ex-star’s team included:
- Shubman Gill – Opening option with consistency in ODIs and T20s.
- Sanju Samson – Wicketkeeper-batter for middle-order stability.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad – Reliable top-order batter who has been in fine form.
- Rinku Singh – Known for finishing games with his aggressive batting.
- Washington Sundar – Offering balance with spin and lower-order batting.
- Arshdeep Singh – Left-arm pace variety for the bowling attack.
- Kuldeep Yadav – Spin spearhead for middle overs.
With Iyer as captain, the ex-star reportedly aimed to build a team that wasn’t only about young power-hitters but also had game-readers and experienced campaigners who can anchor crucial phases.
Fan Reactions
The alternate squad immediately caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts on social media. Many fans agreed that Iyer’s omission from the official squad felt harsh, given his proven performances in international cricket. Some even argued that his leadership qualities in the IPL made him a better candidate for a leadership role than some younger names currently being tested by the BCCI.
Others, however, defended the selectors’ choices, saying it was important to prepare the next generation and move beyond over-reliance on familiar faces.
Bigger Debate: Experience vs Youth
The contrasting squads highlight a larger debate within Indian cricket—whether the focus should be on giving young IPL performers the stage or relying on players with international pedigree. The Asia Cup, often seen as a preparation ground for ICC tournaments, has put selectors under scrutiny for their approach.
By naming Shreyas Iyer captain, the former star has reignited discussions about the importance of experience and maturity in leadership, especially in tournaments where pressure can swing matches in a matter of overs.
Whether or not Shreyas Iyer’s alternate squad would outperform the official team is a question only the tournament can answer. But one thing is clear: the ex-star’s bold call to hand Iyer the captaincy has brought fresh focus on the value of experience, stability, and proven leadership in Indian cricket.
As the Asia Cup 2025 unfolds, fans will be watching closely—not just how India’s chosen squad performs, but also whether Iyer’s absence feels like a missed opportunity.