Shreyas Iyer dropped for Asia Cup, Sparking Debate Over ‘Flair’ vs. ‘Practice’ in Selection
Dubai, UAE – Shreyas Iyer has been excluded from India’s playing XI for the ongoing Asia cup, with Rinku singh favored for a spot in the middle order, a decision that has ignited a discussion about the criteria for selection and the perceived value placed on inherent talent versus honed skill in Indian cricket. The move raises questions about whether selectors were unduly influenced by traditional batting order hierarchies.
Cricket commentator Charlesworth distinguishes between “flair” - an innate, visually striking skill – and ”superior practice skill,” arguing that players like Virat Kohli achieve brilliance through dedicated practice, not simply natural ability. He used the example of Muttiah Muralitharan, noting his success stemmed from variety and execution, not “flair,” while Shane warne’s accuracy was his defining strength.
“Virat Kohli can play all the shots, putting them in context, I don’t think that is playing with flair, he does that because he has practiced them. He has spent a lifetime getting brilliant at them,” Charlesworth stated, concluding his explanation with a direct question: ”Did you understand?”
The debate centers on whether Iyer’s perceived “swagger” and natural ability are being undervalued in favor of players who conform to more conventional expectations. Iyer’s IPL coach,Ricky Ponting,observed this confidence,saying during an Indian Express Idea Exchange,”You watch him walk out to bat the other day,he walked out with a certain amount of swagger about him because he’s confident,he knows he’s playing well,he knows he’s preparing well,and he knows if he does his little things right,then,you no,he can’t fail.”
Despite Iyer’s strong performances and Ponting’s assessment, selectors appear to have prioritized other options.The strength of India’s batting lineup and the perceived weakness of the opposition at the Asia Cup may have contributed to the decision, allowing the team to absorb the impact of leaving a player of Iyer’s caliber on the sidelines.
However, analysts suggest Iyer deserves a consistent place in India’s T20 playing XI, and that players exhibiting confidence and a non-conformist attitude should be encouraged, rather than penalized, within the Indian cricket system. Playing for West Zone while the national team competes in Dubai is not ideal for maintaining Iyer’s momentum and confidence.
