BCCI’s Doubts on Shreyas Iyer’s Selection
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selected the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on January 18. The team for the India vs. England ODI series was also announced. Most picks were expected, but Mohammed Siraj’s exclusion raised questions. Another surprise was the uncertainty around Shreyas Iyer’s selection.
- Shreyas Iyer has been a key player in India’s ODI team since 2022.
- BCCI was not fully convinced about selecting him for the Champions Trophy.
- A strong ODI record helped Iyer secure his spot.
BCCI’s Uncertainty Over Shreyas Iyer
The selection meeting in Mumbai was long and full of discussions. Team India captain Rohit Sharma and Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar debated over the middle order selection. Despite Iyer’s strong performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, his selection was not certain.
“There was quite a fair bit of debate on his inclusion,” a source told TOI.
Ultimately, those who supported him pointed to his ODI batting average of 47.69. This helped him make the final squad.
Shreyas Iyer’s ODI Performance
Shreyas Iyer has proven his skills in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). His performance in World Cup knockout matches is historic.
Shreyas Iyer’s Major ODI Records:
- Fastest century in an ODI World Cup knockout match.
- Only player to score 1000+ ODI runs with an average of 50+ and a strike rate of 100+.
These achievements make him one of the best No. 4 batters in ODI cricket.
Iyer’s Unexpected Chance in Nagpur
Even after being picked for the squad, Iyer wasn’t a confirmed starter for the India vs. England ODI series. In the 1st ODI in Nagpur, he only got to play because Virat Kohli suffered an injury.
“I wasn’t supposed to play today. Virat, unfortunately, got injured, and then I got the opportunity,” Iyer said.
This unexpected chance led to a brilliant 30-ball fifty, impressing fans and selectors alike. His performance against short balls—previously seen as a weakness—surprised everyone.
Shreyas Iyer’s Role in Champions Trophy 2025
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, Iyer’s form will be crucial. His ability to anchor the innings at No. 4 could be a game-changer for India.
Why Shreyas Iyer is Important for Champions Trophy 2025:
- Consistency: Averages nearly 50 in ODIs.
- Big Match Player: Has delivered under pressure.
- Versatile Stroke Play: Can handle different bowling attacks.
However, with strong competition in India’s middle order, his place is not 100% secure. Performances in upcoming matches will decide his role in Champions Trophy 2025.
BCCI’s Selection Dilemma: Experience vs. Current Form
The Champions Trophy 2025 squad has a mix of experienced players and young talents. Iyer’s selection reflects BCCI’s challenge of balancing between experience and current form.
Factors That Made Iyer’s Selection Difficult:
- Injury Concerns: His past injuries raised doubts.
- Competition: India has many strong middle-order batters.
- Short-Ball Weakness: He has struggled against short-pitched deliveries.
Despite these concerns, Iyer’s strong record earned him a place.
Can Iyer Cement His Place for Champions Trophy 2025?
Shreyas Iyer’s road to the Champions Trophy 2025 is not easy. He must perform consistently to keep his spot.
What Iyer Needs to Do:
- Continue scoring runs at a high strike rate.
- Improve against short-pitched bowling.
- Show consistency in upcoming ODIs.
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be a huge test for him.
The BCCI had doubts about selecting Shreyas Iyer for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite being one of the best ODI batters, he wasn’t an automatic pick. His strong records and recent performances helped him secure a place. However, he still needs to prove his worth in the upcoming matches. His role in the Champions Trophy 2025 will be crucial for India’s success.
Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
