Shreyas Iyer's Recovery Journey: Aiming for New Zealand ODI Series Comeback

Shreyas Iyer's Injury and Hospitalization

Shreyas Iyer, the vice-captain of Team India in ODIs, has been sidelined since October due to a spleen injury sustained during the final ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The injury occurred while he attempted a challenging catch, prompting immediate medical assistance and a subsequent visit to Sydney Hospital for evaluation.

Upon admission to the ICU, Iyer was monitored by a team of doctors, including those from the BCCI, due to internal bleeding. Fortunately, the spleen injury was identified and treated promptly, allowing him to spend a week in the hospital before being discharged. Following his release, the 31-year-old continued his recovery in Sydney for several days before returning home.

Impact on Iyer's Cricketing Schedule

As a result of his injury, Iyer missed the ODI series against South Africa and is not included in the T20I plans. He has also taken a six-month hiatus from red-ball cricket to address ongoing back issues, focusing on enhancing his fitness and endurance, as confirmed by the BCCI. In his absence during the three-match ODI series against South Africa, Ruturaj Gaikwad stepped into the No. 4 position and scored a century in the second match.

Recovery at the BCCI Centre of Excellence

After a significant break from competitive cricket due to his spleen injury, Shreyas Iyer has returned to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) to continue his recovery. According to reports, the Punjab Kings captain is set to engage in gym workouts and net sessions at the CoE, which is currently hosting matches for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This venue also witnessed Virat Kohli's impressive comeback with a 131-run innings against Andhra.

Reports indicate that Iyer practiced batting in Mumbai before heading to Bengaluru for further training. A source close to the BCCI mentioned that he experienced no discomfort during his batting session in Mumbai, which is a positive sign following his recovery from surgery.

Prospects for Return in Upcoming ODI Series

With Shreyas Iyer beginning his rehabilitation at the BCCI CoE, speculation arises about his potential return for the ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11. The BCCI anticipates that Iyer may return sooner rather than later, possibly participating in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to demonstrate his match fitness before the ODI series.

A BCCI source noted, 'India's next match is against New Zealand, and while his return is uncertain, he could still play in the later stages of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.'

Positive Signs in Recovery Process

According to reports, the BCCI is relieved that Iyer has shown no concerning signs during his gym sessions. His time at the CoE will help determine the timeline for his return to competitive cricket. A BCCI source stated, 'He is already back to regular training in the gym, so there are no red flags at this moment, but everything depends on the CoE assessment.'

The source added, 'As with any player, he won't be rushed back, but efforts will be made for his swift return.' If Iyer regains his fitness in time for the ODI series against New Zealand, it would significantly benefit Team India, as he is a key No. 4 batsman, providing essential stability and experience in critical ODI matches.