Shreyas Iyer Set for Possible Comeback in Vijay Hazare Trophy
Shreyas Iyer, the dynamic batter for India and Mumbai, has received a conditional clearance to make his return to competitive cricket. According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Iyer has been working diligently to regain full fitness following a spleen injury he suffered during India’s tour of Australia last October. He is expected to participate in the next round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, beginning January 6.
He completed the last phase of his rehabilitation at the CoE, which included a successful practice match on January 2. Iyer spent ten days at the Centre of Excellence for the final stretch of his rehab, and during this practice match he reportedly batted without any discomfort and passed all requisite physical tests both before and after the game.
Selectors and Spectators Await Iyer’s Performance
Having been cleared to represent Mumbai, Iyer is likely to play in the sixth round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy against Himachal Pradesh in Jaipur. This match will be keenly watched, as national selectors will be present to assess his form and fitness ahead of India’s ODI squad announcement for the upcoming series against New Zealand. India’s ODI squad for the New Zealand series is set to be picked on Saturday.
Given the absence of Iyer in recent fixtures, India has explored other batting options such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, who scored his maiden ODI century against South Africa. Additionally, Devdutt Padikkal has showcased impressive performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, registering four centuries in five innings, further intensifying the competition for middle-order positions in the national team.
Background of Iyer’s Injury and Recovery
Iyer’s injury occurred on October 25 during the final ODI against Australia in Sydney. While attempting a catch to dismiss Alex Carey, he sustained a spleen laceration. The resulting internal bleeding necessitated immediate hospitalization and a minor procedure to stabilize his condition. Upon discharge, a statement from BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that Iyer’s recovery was progressing well, with satisfaction from medical teams in both Sydney and India.
The most recent update from November 28, provided by India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel, indicated that Iyer had started his rehabilitation process. His imminent return to the field is marked by anticipation as he seeks to regain his position in India’s cricketing setup.
Iyer’s return not only boosts Mumbai’s chances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy but also gives the national team potentially another strong option for their lineup as they prepare for the forthcoming matches, contingent upon his fitness and performance.
