Shreyas Iyer: For the Indian team, this year will start with a three-match ODI series against New Zealand. Before the first ODI match to be held in Vadodara on January 11, Shreyas Iyer has not yet been able to obtain the certificate of complete fitness from the BCCI medical team. This news is no less than a shock for Indian cricket fans. Now the biggest question arises whether Iyer will join the Indian team.

How was Iyer injured?

Iyer suffered this serious injury during the Australia tour last year in October 2025. In the third ODI played in Sydney, Iyer fell badly on the ground while trying to take a brilliant catch of Alex Carey. His spleen was injured and he suffered from internal bleeding. This injury was so serious that he had to be admitted to the ICU and he has been away from cricket for the last two months.

‘Agnipariksha’ week of fitness test

Iyer is currently in the last phase of his recovery at the Center of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru. According to reports, after this injury, Iyer’s weight has decreased by about 6 kg. Although he has started batting, he still lacks the ‘muscle mass’ and ‘strength’ required for fielding in a 50-over match. Iyer has to undergo two important match-simulation sessions. The first session is scheduled to be held on January 2 (today) and the second on January 5. If they complete both these sessions without any problem, only then will they be allowed to play.

If not Iyer, then who?

If Shreyas Iyer is out of the New Zealand series, then Team India has some solid options for the number-4 spot. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s claim is the strongest after his recent century against South Africa. Apart from this, Tilak Verma can also be an option as a left-handed batsman in the middle order.