NEW DELHI: Shreyas Iyer's omission was a huge talking point from the 15-member Asia Cup squad, with former players and experts rooting for the star batter's inclusion in the team. Iyer has now finally broken his silence on the Asia Cup snub, saying frustration creeps in when you have been left out despite deserving to be in the team.
On the iQOO India podcast, Iyer opened up about the emotions that players experience during such challenging moments. "It is only frustrating when you know that you deserve to be in the team, in the playing XI. At that time, it's frustrating," he said.
"But at the same time, when you know that someone is performing and playing consistently for the team and bringing their best, you support them. And eventually, the goal is for the team to win. When the team is winning, everyone is happy," Iyer highlighted the importance of keeping perspective and putting the team’s success above all else.
Iyer, who has been named captain of India A for the upcoming multi-day series against Australia A, stressed that players should always work hard and stay disciplined, even when no one is watching or giving recognition.
"Even if you don't get a chance, you have to make sure that you do your work ethically. It's not like you do it only when someone is watching. Even when no one is watching, you have to keep doing your work," he added.
India's preparations for defending their Asia Cup title are in full swing. On Sunday, the team revealed their new jersey through an inspiring video montage and continued high-intensity practice sessions at the ICC Academy in Dubai.
The eight-time champions will kick off their campaign against hosts UAE on September 10, followed by a clash with arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14, and will take on Oman on September 19.
