Bad News! Shreyas Iyer's Return To Indian Team Delayed: Reports

India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer has been ruled out of the upcoming limited-overs series against South Africa and New Zealand after his abdominal injury worsened. As per the reports going around, the setback also threatens his availability for the start of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. 

Iyer sustained the injury while attempting a catch during the India tour of Australia. What initially appeared to be a minor injury escalated into a more serious condition involving internal bleeding, leading to hospitalisation and a procedure to address the damage.

According to a Dainik Jagran report, he has returned to India and is undergoing rehabilitation under close medical supervision at home. He recently underwent an ultrasonography test in Mumbai, with his scans reviewed by senior sports-injury specialist Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, who has treated other high-profile athletes. 

While there has been some improvement, Iyer remains on strict restrictions. The report states he has been advised not to engage in activities that put pressure on his abdomen for at least a month, limited to light exercise and minimal movement. A follow-up scan is expected in about two months, after which a decision will be made on the next stage of his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru

As a consequence of the injury’s progression, Iyer’s participation in IPL 2026 is uncertain. He could miss the opening matches of the franchise tournament. 

India is due to play a three-match ODI series against South Africa beginning on November 30 in Ranchi, followed by a series against New Zealand in January.