India’s white-ball plans have taken a hit as Shreyas Iyer, the vice-captain of the ODI squad, is reportedly unlikely to return to cricket before IPL 2026, according to a report by Dainik Jagran.
Iyer’s absence comes after a serious on-field accident during the third ODI against Australia, where he fractured his ribs while attempting a stunning catch. The injury escalated, revealing a ruptured spleen and internal bleeding, forcing the star batsman into a long-term recovery.
As a result, Iyer will miss the upcoming series against South Africa and New Zealand, and, more crucially, he is unlikely to feature in India’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. Reports also suggest he might miss the first few matches of IPL 2026 for Punjab Kings.
Medical updates indicate progress. An ultrasonography (USG) examined by Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, a leading sports physician, showed improvements in Iyer’s condition. However, he has been advised to avoid any activities that put stress on his stomach. A follow-up USG in two months will determine when he can resume training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
If all goes well, there’s a realistic possibility of Iyer returning to the Indian squad for the white-ball series against Afghanistan in June 2026. Until then, India will need to explore alternative options for their T20 and ODI campaigns.
For fans, this is a significant development. Shreyas Iyer has been a pivotal figure in India’s limited-overs strategy, and his absence will influence team selection, strategy, and the dynamic of high-stakes clashes like India vs Pakistan in the T20 World Cup.
Stay tuned for further updates on Shreyas Iyer’s recovery, squad replacements, and implications for IPL 2026.
