Indian middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer has shown significant improvement in his health following an injury sustained during the third and final One Day International against Australia. The 30-year-old cricketer, who was admitted to the hospital after a fall on October 25, has now been moved out of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and is reported to be in a stable condition. This update brings a sigh of relief for fans and the cricketing fraternity, though his return to India might be postponed to ensure complete recovery.
The injury occurred during a crucial moment in the match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) when Iyer attempted to take a spectacular catch of Alex Carey in the cover area, while in his valiant effort, he landed awkwardly, causing an injury to his left rib cage. He was immediately rushed to a local hospital for medical attention, where initial scans revealed a more serious internal injury involving his spleen.
BCCI's Vigilant Monitoring
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been proactive in managing Iyer's health. A statement released on October 27 confirmed the nature of his injury, stating that scans indicated a spleen injury requiring further investigation and treatment. The BCCI's medical team, in close consultation with specialists in Sydney and India, has been continuously monitoring his condition. Team doctor Dr. Rizwan Khan has been by Iyer's side for the past three days, ensuring he receives the best possible care.
Road to Recovery and Delayed Return
According to reports, Iyer is now out of danger, though the internal bleeding caused by the injury necessitated intensive care. His treatment is ongoing at the Sydney hospital. While some local friends have been providing support, a family member is also. In the process of obtaining a visa to travel from Mumbai to Sydney. The exact date of his return to India is currently unclear, as the BCCI, team management, Iyer's family, and his personal staff are collectively opting against a rushed return, while the priority is his full recovery, suggesting he may remain in Sydney for several more days or even weeks.
Impact on Upcoming Fixtures
This injury casts a shadow over Iyer's participation in India's next assignment, a three-match ODI series against South Africa, scheduled for November 30, December 3, and December 6. His fitness for these crucial matches will be assessed closer to the date. Meanwhile, the Indian squad, without Iyer, has already arrived in Canberra for the five-match T20I series against Australia, with the first game set for October 29. The focus remains on Iyer's complete recuperation before he can consider returning to competitive cricket.
