Ashwin questions IPL performance influencing Test selections

Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his thoughts on the relationship between different cricket formats. He believes that success in the Indian Premier League (IPL) should not influence selections for Test matches. Ashwin highlighted that a strong IPL performance does not mean a player automatically deserves a spot in the Test squad. He used Shreyas Iyer as an example. Even if Iyer excels in the upcoming IPL, Ashwin thinks it won't enhance his Test credentials. He emphasized that good performance in ODIs is also distinctly different from Tests and T20s. The former spinner questioned why people consider a good IPL season as a valid reason for Test selection. He believed that discussions around players should stay within the context of their respective formats. If a player shines in the IPL, that should only impact their T20I prospects, according to Ashwin. Ashwin praised Iyer for his recent performances, including his role in helping Kolkata Knight Riders win the IPL title last season and performing well in the Champions Trophy. Iyer has now moved to the Punjab Kings for the 2025 IPL after being released by KKR. Iyer is set to lead Punjab Kings this season and aims to take his performance to new heights. Though he is currently not part of India’s T20 team, a strong IPL might improve his chances of returning to international T20 cricket.