In a significant boost for the Indian cricket team, middle-order batsman and ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is poised to make his competitive comeback. His return is scheduled ahead of the crucial home ODI series against New Zealand, pending final medical clearances.
Road to Recovery at the BCCI Centre
Shreyas Iyer has been diligently working on his fitness and form at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His training camp is expected to continue until December 30, where he has been undergoing rigorous net sessions without any reported discomfort. This phase is critical for his reintegration into top-level cricket.
Vijay Hazare Trophy as the Proving Ground
Before stepping onto the international stage, Iyer will test his match readiness in the domestic arena. He is slated to link up with the Mumbai Vijay Hazare Trophy squad in Jaipur on January 2. According to a Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) official, the current plan is for him to feature in two key fixtures.
"We are hearing positive developments around Shreyas. He is very likely to play two games for Mumbai on January 3 and January 6. The final schedule will depend on clearance from CoE but signs are positive," the official stated, confirming the batsman is batting well in the nets.
Final Step: The New Zealand ODI Series
If all goes according to plan in Jaipur, the right-hander will then join the Indian team for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The series opener is scheduled to be played in Vadodara on January 11. His return will solidify India's middle order, which has been seeking stability.
Iyer's comeback trail follows his recent comments on regaining confidence, where he emphasized that his renewed self-assurance was "not something I changed suddenly." His experience and skill set are viewed as vital assets for the team's preparations in a World Cup year.
The national selectors and team management will be closely monitoring his performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, hoping for a seamless transition back to the blue jersey. All eyes will now be on Jaipur as Iyer takes his first major step towards reclaiming his spot in the Men in Blue.
