Major Setback for Team India as Iyer's Recovery Hits a Snag
In a significant development for Indian cricket, the anticipated return of ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer to competitive action has been pushed back. The star batter has not received the necessary fitness clearance from the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, forcing a delay in his comeback plans. Originally scheduled to be discharged on December 30, Iyer will now spend at least an additional week at the facility to complete his Return to Play (RTP) protocol.
The Core Issue: Weight Loss and Depleted Strength
While Iyer has been batting in the nets without any reported discomfort, the medical team has identified a critical concern. The abdominal injury he suffered previously led to rapid weight loss, which has subsequently affected his optimum strength levels. A BCCI official revealed to TimesofIndia.com that Iyer lost approximately six kilograms following the injury sustained in Australia. Although he has regained some weight, there has been a notable drop in muscle mass, impacting his overall physical preparedness.
The official emphasized the caution being exercised, stating, "The medical team will not be taking any chances because he is a very important player in the ODI set up. His complete recovery is of utmost importance right now." The national selectors and team management will be formally updated about his current status before they convene to pick the squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.
Revised Timeline and Missed Opportunities
This delay has directly impacted Iyer's playing schedule. He was initially lined up to feature in domestic cricket, specifically Vijay Hazare Trophy matches on January 3 and 6, as a warm-up before the three-match ODI series against New Zealand beginning in Vadodara on January 11. However, with the necessary clearances now expected only by January 9, those plans have been scrapped.
An official from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) confirmed the alteration, noting, "There were indications of him playing the Vijay Hazare Trophy matches... but we have now been told that he needs more time and will only be available from the knockout stages of the tournament." The Vijay Hazare Trophy knockout rounds are scheduled from January 12, which is a day after India's first ODI against New Zealand.
Iyer had shown positive signs in his rehabilitation, having resumed training, gym work, and even having a net session in Mumbai before reporting to the CoE on December 25. He spent six days undergoing rigorous batting, fielding, and fitness drills at the national cricket academy. His extended stay will now focus primarily on regaining his lost strength and muscle mass.
Consequences for Team India:
- Iyer is now highly unlikely to be selected for the New Zealand ODI series.
- This series is India's last bilateral ODI assignment before the focus shifts to the T20 World Cup in February and March.
- His return is tentatively set for the knockout phase of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, pending final clearance.
The setback underscores the BCCI's increased focus on player workload management and ensuring key athletes are at 100% fitness before returning to the high-intensity international arena.
