Shreyas Iyer is reportedly set to spend close to three weeks on the sidelines after picking up an injury in the third ODI between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25. The newly-appointed vice-captain hurt himself while completing a difficult catch to dismiss Alex Carey in the 34th over.
He sprinted back from point, tracked the ball accurately and dived to complete the dismissal, but landed heavily on his left side. He appeared in visible discomfort and clutched his ribs even as the physios examined him.
He eventually walked off the field with a hobble as commentary teams debated the seriousness of the blow. Soon after, the BCCI shared an official update stating — “UPDATE – Shreyas Iyer sustained an injury to his left rib cage while fielding. He has been taken to the hospital for further evaluation and assessment of his injury,” the statement read.
Diagnosis, Possible Hairline Fracture And Selection Risk
According to PTI, the setback is expected to keep him out of competitive cricket for at least three weeks, but a potential hairline fracture could mean a longer layoff and jeopardize his availability for India’s upcoming home ODI series against South Africa that begins on November 30.
A BCCI official told PTI that “Shreyas was taken to the hospital for scans during the match itself. As per initial diagnosis, there has been a jerk, and he will have to be out of action for a minimum of three weeks. He will have to report to the Centre of Excellence on his return. Further reports are awaited before one can conclude if he will require more time for recovery.”
He further added :
“If it is a hairline fracture, then it might take longer. It is too early to say. If it is three weeks before RTP (Return To Play), then there is a chance that it could be touch and go before November 30.” If confirmed, this would be another instance in a series of unfortunate injuries for Iyer, who dislocated his shoulder in 2020 and has also been managing a recurring back issue for which he has paused red-ball commitments.
Match Result And Series Context
Despite the scare, India finished the run chase without requiring Shreyas with the bat. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli led a flawless response that ensured a nine-wicket victory with more than 11 overs remaining. That win helped India avoid a clean sweep as the series ended 2-1 in Australia’s favor. Both teams will now shift focus to a five-match T20I series beginning October 29.
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