AB de Villiers Weighs In: The Path Back for Shreyas Iyer After Asia Cup Snub

The cricketing world is buzzing with discussions surrounding India's squad selection for the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025, and one name conspicuously absent has drawn particular attention: Shreyas Iyer. The stylish middle-order batsman, who has often been a crucial cog in India's limited-overs setup, found himself on the sidelines, sparking debates among fans and pundits alike.

Amidst this backdrop, none other than the legendary AB de Villiers has offered his candid and insightful perspective, providing a potential roadmap for Iyer's return to the national fold.

Known for his forthright analysis and deep understanding of the game, the former South African captain, affectionately dubbed 'Mr.

360', didn't mince words when addressing Iyer's current predicament. De Villiers acknowledged Shreyas Iyer's undeniable talent and potential, labelling him a "wonderful player." However, he swiftly pivoted to the elephant in the room \u2013 Iyer's struggles against the short-pitched delivery, a technical vulnerability that has often been exploited by opposition bowlers, particularly in higher-pressure situations.

De Villiers' advice was both empathetic and pragmatic.

He strongly advocated for Iyer to take a strategic break from the demanding international circuit. This isn't just about physical recovery from past injuries, which have plagued Iyer in recent times, but crucially, about dedicating time to meticulously iron out the technical kinks in his batting. "He needs to sort out his short ball technique," De Villiers stated unequivocally, adding a crucial caution: "Don't rush back." This counsel highlights the importance of thorough preparation over a hasty return, which could further damage confidence if the underlying issues persist.

Shreyas Iyer's journey in recent months has been a tumultuous one.

After a prolonged absence due to a back injury, he made a comeback, only to face a challenging IPL 2024 season where his form was inconsistent, and his struggles against pace and bounce were once again evident. While his leadership for Kolkata Knight Riders was commendable, his personal batting returns left much to be desired.

This period has undeniably impacted his standing in the national team, especially with a fiercely competitive middle-order fighting for spots.

The 'short ball' weakness is not a new revelation for Iyer. It's a facet of his game that has been targeted by opponents across formats. De Villiers' emphasis on this particular aspect underscores its critical importance at the international level.

For a player aspiring to cement a place in India's World Cup squad and beyond, leaving such a prominent vulnerability unaddressed is simply not an option. The break, as suggested by De Villiers, offers Iyer a golden opportunity to work intensively with coaches, refine his technique, and build a more robust defense against aggressive bowling.

Furthermore, De Villiers' comments hint at a potential message from the selectors.

Sometimes, exclusions aren't just about current form but also about encouraging players to address specific areas of improvement. By stepping away from the limelight, Iyer can focus solely on skill development without the immediate pressure of performance. It\u2019s a chance to rebuild not just technique, but also mental resilience.

Ultimately, the path back for Shreyas Iyer, as envisioned by AB de Villiers, is one of introspection, dedicated practice, and strategic patience.

His talent is undeniable, and his past performances speak volumes. However, to reclaim his place and thrive at the highest level, he must embrace this period as an opportunity for profound personal and technical growth. The cricketing world will eagerly await the return of a more complete and formidable Shreyas Iyer, ready to silence his critics and once again become a mainstay for Team India.