BCCI official's reality check: Shreyas Iyer's ODI return uncertain, fielding ability to be assessed
A BCCI official has delivered a reality check on reports suggesting Shreyas Iyer is set to return for India’s ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11, revealing that his participation remains uncertain and will depend on whether he can handle the physical demands of a 50-over game following abdominal surgery.
BCCI source: “Will have to assess his ability to field before putting him back”
While media reports on Sunday claimed that Iyer could play two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for Mumbai on January 3 and 6 before linking up with the Indian team in Vadodara, a BCCI source told NDTV that no decision has been made yet.
“Shreyas Iyer has started skill training this week. He is in good shape. But will have to assess his ability to field in a 50-over game before putting him back in the park. Depending on how he pulls up, his participation in Vijay Hazare will be decided,” the BCCI source said.
The source emphasized that Iyer’s recovery from spleen laceration and abdominal surgery needs careful monitoring, particularly his ability to cope with the physical rigors of fielding for extended periods in a 50-over match.
Serious injury sustained in Australia
Iyer, India’s ODI vice-captain, has been out of action since suffering a serious spleen laceration while attempting to take a diving catch off Australia wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey during the third ODI at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25.
Subsequent scans at a hospital in Sydney revealed internal bleeding that required immediate hospitalization and intensive care. Iyer underwent a minor surgical procedure to control the bleeding and was closely monitored by local medical specialists in Australia and India, including the Indian team doctor, before his condition stabilized and he flew back home.
The 30-year-old is currently at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further assessment of his recovery and has recently resumed skill training.
Potential Vijay Hazare Trophy return
If Iyer’s recovery continues on track and he receives medical clearance, he could return to competitive action for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Mumbai are scheduled to play Maharashtra on January 3 and Himachal Pradesh on January 6 in Jaipur.
However, the BCCI source’s comments suggest that Iyer’s participation in these matches is not guaranteed and will depend on how his body responds to training and whether he can safely handle the demands of fielding in a 50-over game.
ODI series against New Zealand
The three-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11 in Vadodara, with the remaining matches scheduled for Rajkot (January 14) and Indore (January 18).
If Iyer is fit and available, his return would be a major boost for India’s middle order as they continue preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup. The right-hander has been a consistent performer in the 50-over format and his experience and ability to anchor innings would add significant depth to the batting lineup.
For now, though, the focus remains on ensuring Iyer is fully recovered and can handle the physical demands of international cricket without risking further injury.