Shreyas Iyer Injury: Shreyas Ruled Out of New Zealand Series, Medical Report Cites Unfit for 50-Over Format

Indian middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer will have to wait longer for his return to the national squad as he has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand. Medical reports suggest that Iyer isn't yet fully fit for the demanding 50-over format, making his selection for the series highly unlikely. This news comes as a significant setback for the Indian team, especially with the selection committee. Poised to announce the squad for the New Zealand series within the next day or two.

Injury and Recovery Status

Shreyas Iyer is currently undergoing recovery and rehabilitation at the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (NCA) in Bengaluru. His recovery progress is being closely monitored and assessed this week. Sources within the BCCI have confirmed that the medical team will soon submit its report, which indicates that Iyer isn't yet deemed fully fit for ODI cricket. Consequently, his inclusion in the squad for the New Zealand series. Is improbable, extending his wait for a comeback to the Indian team.

Injury Sustained During Australia Tour

Iyer's injury dates back to India's tour of Australia. He sustained the injury on October 25 during the third ODI against Australia played in Sydney, while the incident occurred when Iyer took a spectacular catch of Australian batsman Alex Carey, running backwards from the backward point position. In the process, he injured his left rib. Given the severity of the injury, he was immediately taken from the dressing room to a hospital in Sydney for medical attention and assessment.

Upcoming New Zealand Series

Shreyas Iyer suffered a spleen injury, which involves a vital organ of the human body. The spleen is located on the left side of the abdomen, beneath the ribs. Its primary function is to filter blood, destroying old and damaged red blood cells. Plus, the spleen plays a crucial role in strengthening the body's immune system, helping to fight infections, and storing and releasing blood and platelets when needed, while an injury to such a critical organ naturally requires a comprehensive recovery period, which is contributing to the delay in Iyer's return to competitive cricket. The first match of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand is scheduled to be played on January 11 in Baroda. The selection committee is expected to announce the Indian squad for this series shortly, while in Iyer's absence, the team management will need to identify a suitable replacement for the middle-order. Iyer's contributions with both bat and in the field have been significant for the team, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt. His fitness will continue to be monitored, with hopes for his full recovery and return to the field soon.