India have received a timely boost ahead of their upcoming three-match One Day International series against New Zealand, with star batter Shreyas Iyer set to make a much-awaited comeback. According to multiple reports, Iyer is on track to return to the Indian squad after recovering from an injury that kept him out of action for nearly two months. The ODI series against New Zealand is scheduled to begin on January 11, and all signs point towards Iyer being available for selection.
Positive Updates on Shreyas Iyer’s Fitness
There has been encouraging news regarding Shreyas Iyer’s fitness in recent days. The right-handed batter has resumed net sessions and has been batting without discomfort, indicating steady progress in his recovery. Sources suggest that Iyer will travel to Jaipur on January 2 to join the Mumbai squad for the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. He is expected to feature in Mumbai’s matches scheduled for January 3 and January 6, which will be a crucial test of his match readiness.
Following these domestic fixtures, Iyer is likely to link up with the Indian team for the New Zealand ODI series, which begins on January 11. The series opener will be played in Vadodara, and the final squad announcement is expected around January 2 or 3.
Mumbai Cricket Association Confirms Optimism
Speaking to media outlets, a senior official from the Mumbai Cricket Association shared optimistic updates about Iyer’s condition. The official stated that Shreyas Iyer is responding well to rehabilitation and has a strong chance of playing the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for Mumbai.
“The feedback on Shreyas Iyer’s fitness has been very positive. There is a high possibility that he will play the two matches scheduled on January 3 and January 6. Final confirmation will depend on clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, but the indications are encouraging,” the official said.
Earlier reports had revealed that Iyer batted for nearly an hour during a practice session in Mumbai on December 23 without any issues. Following that session, he visited the Centre of Excellence for further medical evaluation and fitness assessments.
Injury During Australia Tour Kept Him Out
Shreyas Iyer has been sidelined since sustaining an injury during the tour of Australia. The setback occurred during the third ODI of the series, when he suffered a rib injury while batting. The injury was serious enough to require hospitalization, and Iyer was reportedly admitted to the ICU as a precautionary measure.
Due to this injury, the 31-year-old missed several important assignments, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the subsequent ODI series against South Africa. His absence was felt in India’s middle order, where Iyer has been a key contributor, particularly in the ODI format.
Big Boost for India’s Middle Order
If cleared to play, Iyer’s return will significantly strengthen India’s batting lineup ahead of the New Zealand series. Known for his ability to handle spin and anchor the middle overs, Iyer has been a consistent performer for India in limited-overs cricket. His experience and composure could prove vital as India look to start the new year on a strong note.
The upcoming ODI series will also serve as an important platform for players to cement their places ahead of future international assignments. With the team announcement expected soon, selectors will closely monitor Iyer’s performance in domestic cricket before making a final call.
What Lies Ahead
India’s three-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11, and anticipation is building among fans and selectors alike. Shreyas Iyer’s potential return after a challenging injury layoff is being seen as a major positive development for the team. Provided he receives final medical clearance, Iyer is expected to don the India jersey once again, marking an important step in his comeback journey.
For now, all eyes will be on his performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which could well determine his immediate international future.
