Former India spinner Maninder Singh has voiced his disappointment over the absence of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer in India’s squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, scheduled to begin on September 9.
Ex-spinner backs Jaiswal
Maninder said Jaiswal has shown maturity across formats and deserved a place in the team. “I was a little disappointed not to see his name. Jaiswal, I think, is ready for any format and should be part of any Indian side,” Singh said in an interaction with PTI Videos.
Iyer’s repeated exclusion questioned
On Iyer, the former cricketer expressed concern over his continuous omission despite being a proven performer. “I really don’t know why he keeps getting left out because he’s such a fantastic and positive player. He contributes so much to the team. But this has been happening for years, and if it continues, he may be forgotten despite his talent,” he noted.
Gill groomed as future captain
India, the defending champions, will be led by Suryakumar Yadav at the Asia Cup. Singh also commented on Shubman Gill’s appointment as vice-captain, saying it shows the selectors are preparing him for bigger responsibilities. “I feel the selectors have decided that he will be our future captain. If that is the case, it’s the right call to make him vice-captain now. Surya may have another couple of years in T20s, and Gill will be ready to take charge after that,” Singh added.
India will look to use the Asia Cup as a crucial build-up to next year’s World Cup at home.
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