As the countdown to the Asia Cup 2025 begins, speculation is rife over India’s squad selection for the tournament starting September 9 in the UAE. With youngsters like Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, and Tilak Varma in the mix, there is uncertainty over the inclusion of Test skipper Shubman Gill, despite his strong showing in the recent Test series against England. Another big name whose selection remains unclear is Shreyas Iyer.

Iyer, however, has earned recognition for his leadership in the Indian Premier League (IPL). After guiding Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the IPL 2024 title and leading Punjab Kings (PBKS) to the final in IPL 2025, Iyer has strengthened his case as a strong leader.

Former India batter Ambati Rayudu believes Iyer should be named India’s next ODI captain following Rohit Sharma’s retirement. Speaking on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast, Rayudu said:
“Iyer has got an extraordinary calmness. He first captained KKR to the title and then led Punjab brilliantly. The way he took a young team to the final was incredible. Very soon, he should be made the captain.”

Iyer’s recent form in ODI cricket further backs Rayudu’s opinion. He finished as India’s top run-scorer in their Champions Trophy 2025 title win, amassing 243 runs in five innings at an average of 48.60, including two half-centuries with a highest score of 79.

His IPL 2025 performance was equally impressive. Iyer ended as the sixth-highest run-getter of the season with 604 runs in 17 innings at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 175.07, including six fifties and a best score of 97*. His consistency and leadership played a key role in taking PBKS to their first IPL final since 2014, though they narrowly lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by six runs.

With such performances, Iyer’s name is gaining momentum for the ODI captaincy role, even as Gill’s future in the squad looks uncertain.