India has received a timely boost ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, with star middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer making encouraging progress in his recovery from injury.
The right-hander has resumed batting and has reported to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) for a detailed assessment, raising hopes of a potential return to competitive cricket.
Positive signs as Iyer resumes batting
According to a report by The Times of India, Iyer spent close to an hour batting in the nets in Mumbai and did not experience any discomfort.
This development comes just over two weeks before India’s ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11, making it a significant positive for the team management and selectors.
While no official timeline has been set for his return, the fact that Iyer is batting pain-free is being viewed as a major step forward in his rehabilitation. The medical team at the CoE will now chart a safe and structured roadmap for his comeback.
Injury sustained during the Australia series
Shreyas Iyer last featured in competitive cricket during India’s ODI series against Australia in October. He suffered an injury to his left rib and abdomen area while attempting a catch during the third ODI in Sydney. As a precaution, he was taken to the hospital for scans and was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the series.
The injury forced Iyer to miss the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the ODI series against South Africa, depriving him of valuable match practice during a busy phase of India’s limited-overs calendar.
Assessment at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence
As part of his recovery process, Iyer is expected to spend four to six days at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, where he will undergo fitness tests, medical evaluations, and cricket-specific assessments. A BCCI official confirmed that all post-injury X-rays and medical reports have shown no cause for concern.
“Shreyas Iyer had an unfortunate injury in Australia, which kept him out of competitive cricket. The encouraging sign is that he is pain-free at the moment and batted without any trouble,” the official told The Times of India.
However, the final decision on his return will depend entirely on the recommendations of the CoE medical staff.
Vijay Hazare Trophy seen as comeback route
While Iyer’s inclusion in the New Zealand ODI series remains uncertain, reports suggest that he is targeting a return through the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The domestic 50-over tournament would allow him to regain match fitness and rhythm before making a full return to international cricket.
Selectors are expected to consider both his fitness status and match readiness before deciding on his inclusion in upcoming squads.
Selection scenario ahead of New Zealand series
India’s home ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11, with the squad likely to be announced around January 2 or 3.
With limited time remaining, Iyer’s fitness remains a key talking point, though a cautious approach is expected from the team management.
Iyer’s importance in India’s ODI plans
Shreyas Iyer has been a vital part of India’s ODI middle order, known for his ability to handle spin, rotate strike, and accelerate in pressure situations.
A fully fit Iyer adds balance and depth to India’s batting line-up, making his recovery an important development as India look to build a settled core for future 50-over assignments.
