"What is going on behind closed doors…" - AB de Villiers questions Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion from Asia Cup

Shreyas Iyer has been a glaring absence from the recently announced India lineup for the Asia Cup 2025. With his excellent leadership, the Punjab Kings captain led his team to the Indian Premier League 2025 final earlier this year. He was also a crucial component of Punjab's batting lineup, scoring three or four runs depending on the circumstance. Prior to this, in 2024, he led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title as well.

Many former players and commentators, however, have been outspoken since he was removed from the Indian squad, questioning the selectors' decision. According to former South African cricket player Ab de Villiers, it might have been related to Iyer's behaviour in the dressing room, which could have worked against him.

"It is tough, guys. I was just going through the squad. I was thinking, where can we fit Shreyas in, because I've seen all the headlines and some fans being upset. I think Shreyas will be the most upset because he's played some really good cricket over the last few years. He's matured a lot. He showed a lot of leadership qualities, but who knows what is going on behind closed doors? No one. Not me. Not you guys,” de Villiers said during a live chat on X.

“Maybe not even Shreyas knows. But there might be a few things that have taken place over the years that have determined why it's not the flavour of the month for a certain tournament. He's a quality player. He'll be in my team more often than not. But sometimes, and I'm not talking about Shreyas now, but sometimes thinking about when I was captaining, if there's a 50-50 call between two players, I would always lean towards the guy that I feel offers more from a team perspective off the field,” he added.

"So, a team player kind of call. That's my best guess. I'm not saying it's true. Make up your own mind. Actually, ask more questions about it and let me know what you think. Maybe the truth will come out one day, and we'll know exactly why Shreyas is struggling to get into Team India starting line-ups or squads at least," he concluded.

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