Team India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is recovering from a severe injury sustained during the Australia tour, but he is unlikely to play in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, beginning November 30.
According to The Indian Express, the injury was more serious than first believed. Sources revealed that Iyer’s oxygen level dropped to 50, and he was unable to stand for nearly 10 minutes after the incident.
“There was a complete blackout around him, and it took some time for him to return to normal,” a BCCI official confirmed.
The Incident in Sydney
Iyer suffered the injury while attempting a diving catch to dismiss Alex Carey during the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25. The impact caused a laceration of his spleen with internal bleeding, prompting immediate hospitalization.
According to a BCCI statement,
“Shreyas Iyer sustained a blunt injury to his abdomen during the third ODI against Australia, resulting in a laceration of his spleen with internal bleeding. The injury was promptly identified, and bleeding was immediately arrested following a minor procedure.”
He was discharged last week and has since returned to India for further recovery.
Recovery and Expected Return
Sources indicate that Iyer will need at least a month to regain full match fitness. “The board and selection committee don’t want to rush him back after the injury,” said a senior official, confirming that his participation in the South Africa ODIs looks doubtful.
India’s three-match ODI series is scheduled to take place in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam, following the two-Test series starting November 14.
Iyer Shares Update from Home
Despite the setback, the Mumbai batsman remains in good spirits. On Monday, he shared a post on social media with the caption:
“Sun’s been a great therapy. Grateful to be back. Thanks for all the love and care.”
Catch every update on Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on The Cricket Scores!
