Shreyas Iyer discharged from hospital in Sydney

SYDNEY: India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer was discharged from the Sydney hospital on Saturday following a spleen laceration he sustained during the third ODI against Australia on October 25.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Saturday that Iyer is now “stable and recovering well” after undergoing a minor procedure to stop internal bleeding.

He will remain in Sydney for further medical evaluation before returning to India once cleared fit to travel.

“The injury was promptly identified, and the bleeding was immediately arrested following a minor procedure,” BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said in a statement.

“He has undergone appropriate medical management for the same. The BCCI medical team, along with specialists in Sydney and India, are pleased with his recovery, and he has been discharged from the hospital today.”

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The 30-year-old was treated by Dr Koroush Haghighi and his team in Sydney, with assistance from Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala in India.

Iyer’s injury occurred when he completed a diving catch to dismiss Alex Carey during the Sydney ODI.

He was seen clutching his rib cage and signaling for medical attention before being taken off the field.

Subsequent scans revealed internal bleeding caused by a spleen laceration, leading to his ICU admission for observation.

India went on to win the final ODI by nine wickets but lost the three-match series 2–1. The visitors trail 1–0 in the T20I series currently underway in Australia.

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Suryakumar Yadav provides update on Shreyas Iyer’s injury

Suryakumar Yadav, captain of India’s T20I team, announced on Tuesday that middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer is stable and has been in communication with the team from the hospital after suffering a lacerated spleen.

Iyer, 30, sustained the injury as he pulled off a sensational catch to remove Alex Carey, a key moment in the third one-day international against Australia that India won by nine wickets in Sydney.

The Indian ODI vice-captain was forced off the field and hospitalised.

“I have been talking to him over the last two days, he has been replying,” Suryakumar told journalists ahead of the team’s first T20 international in Canberra on Wednesday.

“It’s looking good,” Suryakumar said. “They will keep him under observation for a few days.”

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He added that doctors and physiotherapists described the injury as “rare”.

“But rare things happen to rare talent. God is with him, and he will recover soon, and we will take him along with us.”

Iyer is being closely monitored by the medical team of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

He is not part of India’s T20 squad, which will play five matches in Australia that will serve as a tune-up for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka in February-March.

He has scored 2,917 runs from 73 ODIs at an average of 47.81 since his ODI debut in 2017.

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India issue update on Shreyas Iyer’s life-threatening injury

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has provided an update on the right-handed batter Shreyas Iyer, who sustained a severe injury during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney.

The country’s cricket board said on Monday that Iyer is currently hospitalised, undergoing treatment for a lacerated spleen.

This injury was sustained during an intense moment in the third ODI, where India triumphed by nine wickets.

Iyer experienced a powerful impact on his left lower rib cage as he executed a breathtaking backpedalling catch to dismiss Alex Carey.

Despite the victory, India lost the series 1-2 after suffering defeats in the first two games in Perth and Adelaide.

Iyer, who is also the vice-captain of the ODI team, was forced off the field after the injury and did not return for the rest of Australia’s innings.

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“Shreyas Iyer sustained an impact injury to his left lower rib cage region while fielding during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney on 25th October 2025. He was taken to the hospital for further evaluation,” the BCCI said in a statement.

“Scans have revealed a laceration injury to the spleen. He is under treatment, medically stable, and recovering well.

“The BCCI Medical Team, in consultation with specialists in Sydney and India, is closely monitoring his injury status. The Indian Team Doctor will remain in Sydney with Shreyas to evaluate his day-to-day progress.”

He remains hospitalised in Sydney, where the BCCI medical team is closely monitoring him in consultation with specialists from Australia and India, the statement added.

It was not clear when Iyer could return to action. A five-match T20 series between the two cricketing powerhouses begins on October 29, but Iyer is not a part of that squad.

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Shreyas Iyer breaks silence on Asia Cup 2025 snub

India batter Shreyas Iyer has opened up about his disappointment at missing out on the 15-member squad for the upcoming ACC Asia Cup 2025, admitting he felt “frustrated” but remains determined to bounce back stronger.

Speaking on a local Indian podcast, Iyer said he initially struggled to accept the exclusion, especially given his recent performances, but has since chosen to focus on the bigger picture.

“It is only frustrating when you know you deserve to be in the team, in the playing XI. That time, it was frustrating,” Iyer said.

“But at the same time, when someone is performing consistently for the team, you support them. Eventually, the goal is for the team to win, and when the team is winning, everyone is happy.”

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The right-hander stressed that setbacks won’t affect his work ethic, emphasising that preparation is as important as match-day execution.

“If you don’t get a chance, you have to see to it that you do your work ethically. It’s not like you have to perform only when someone is watching. When you prepare yourself in a certain manner, whatever happens on the ground is just a reflection of what you do off the field,” he explained.

Shreyas Iyer added that consistent preparation always pays off in the long run.

“If your prep is good and you don’t perform in one or two games, in the third game, you are definitely going to perform. I have experienced this,” he concluded.

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AB de Villiers questions THIS player’s exclusion from India’s Asia Cup squad

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has questioned the exclusion of star batter Shreyas Iyer from India’s squad for the ACC Asia Cup 2025.

Last week, India’s men’s selection committee announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

However, the exclusion of Iyer raised eyebrows, especially considering his outstanding performance in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), where he scored 604 runs at an average of 50.33 and an impressive strike rate of 175.07.

AB de Villiers has recently spoken out, expressing his surprise at Iyer’s exclusion from the team. He articulated his confusion over the decision to overlook a player of such remarkable talent and potential.

During an interview with Indian media, de Villiers emphasized that Iyer’s maturity, steady progression in his career, and impressive leadership abilities should have made him a natural choice for selection.

“Of course, it’s weird to me, a quality player like that not making the starting squad for Team India, especially with the leadership qualities he’s bringing,” he stated.

“I have no idea, to be honest. If there’s a 50-50 call, you would always lean towards the guy that you feel will bring the best out in other players.”

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The former captain of the South African cricket team suggested that various factors outside of the game might have influenced the selectors’ final decision.

“He’s matured a lot. He has demonstrated many leadership qualities, but who knows what is happening behind closed doors? Maybe, not even Shreyas knows,” he further added.

“There might be a few things that have taken place over the years that have determined why he’s not the flavour of the month for a certain tournament. He’s a quality player. He’ll be in my team more often than not.”

The Asia Cup 2025 will begin on September 9 with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in the opening fixture.

India are placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, hosts UAE, and Oman.

They open their campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai, before locking horns with Pakistan on September 14 in one of the tournament’s most-anticipated clashes.

Their final group stage match against Oman is scheduled for September 19 in Abu Dhabi.

India’s squad for Asia Cup 2025: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh, Sanju Samson.

Reserves: Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal.

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BCCI considering THIS star batter to replace Rohit Sharma as ODI captain

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering ace batter Shubman Gill as a potential successor to Rohit Sharma in One Day Internationals (ODIs), an Indian news outlet reported on Friday.

According to the report, Shubman Gill, who has also been appointed as Test captain, is expected to replace Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain as well.

Shubman Gill has cemented his spot in the ODIs and has a stellar average of 59 in the 50-over format.

The report cited a source backing Shubman Gill to take over the reins from Rohit Sharma when the time comes.

“He [Shubman Gill] averages 59 in ODI cricket and is already the vice-captain of the team. There is no way someone who has recently been appointed Test captain, found some success, and has age on his side should not take over leadership in ODI cricket, when the time comes,” the source said.

As the Indian team undergoes a transition, reports suggest that besides Shubman Gill, several names may replace Rohit Sharma.

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The middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer is among those whose stock as a captain in white-ball cricket has risen after a stellar display in two consecutive Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons.

Shreyas Iyer, who was pivotal in India’s Champions Trophy triumph, took two different franchises to the IPL final. His leadership skills have made him a strong contender for the captaincy role in India’s ODI cricket team.

However, according to the report, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had denied replacing Rohit Sharma as captain.

“That’s news to me. There have been no such discussions,” Saikia said.

It is pertinent to mention that the 38-year-old Rohit Sharma has already retired from T20I and Test cricket. With ODI remaining his strongest format, the right-handed batter is yet to provide clarity on his future.

However, recent reports suggest that BCCI is looking to incorporate some young players ahead of the 2027 ICC World Cup. This makes Sharma’s place in the team vulnerable, as he will be 40 by the time the marquee event in South Africa arrives.

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Aakash Chopra names THIS player as India’s best middle order batter

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has called Shreyas Iyer the country’s best current middle-order batter, urging selectors to include him in the squad for the upcoming ACC Asia Cup 2025.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted Iyer’s ability to dominate the middle overs, praising his knack for finding boundaries and maintaining momentum under pressure.

“The Asia Cup squad needs to include Shreyas Iyer because no Indian player was better than him in the middle overs during the Champions Trophy,” he said.

Aakash Chopra further underlined Iyer’s stellar form in IPL 2025, where the Punjab Kings skipper scored 604 runs in 17 innings at an average of 50.33, leading his side to the final.

He noted that such performances often influence national selection.

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“This was Shreyas Iyer’s best IPL season yet. We have often seen that IPL performances play a key role in T20 selections. By that measure, Iyer deserves a spot,” Aakash Chopra added.

Iyer’s T20I numbers also strengthen his case, with 1,104 runs at a strike rate of 136.11 in 47 innings, the fifth-highest tally among active Indian players.

Aakash Chopra said his experience and composure could provide India with much-needed stability in the middle overs heading into the 2026 T20 World Cup.

The Asia Cup 2025 begins on September 9 with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in the Group B opener.

Pakistan and India headline Group A alongside UAE and Oman, while Group B consists of Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.

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Shreyas Iyer named ICC Player of the Month for March 2025

DUBAI: Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer was crowned ICC Men’s Player of the Month for March, owing to his brilliant performance during his side’s successful Champions Trophy 2025 campaign.

He claimed the prestigious award after beating off stiff competition from the New Zealand duo of all-rounder Rachin Ravindra and pace bowler Jacob Duffy.

Shreyas Iyer played a vital role in India’s title-winning campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, finishing as the team’s highest run-scorer.

The right-hander amassed 172 runs in three ODIs at an average of 57.33 and a strike rate of 77.47.

While his top score (79) came during India’s group-stage clash against New Zealand, Iyer also chipped in with key contributions in the knockout stages, scoring 45 in the semi-final against Australia and 48 in the final versus the Kiwis.

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Iyer expressed pride in being named Player of the Month, stating that contributing to India’s success is a dream for every cricketer.

“I’m truly honored to be named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for March. This recognition is incredibly special, especially in a month where we lifted the ICC Champions Trophy — a moment I will cherish forever,” he stated.

“Being able to contribute to India’s success on such a big stage is something every cricketer dreams of. I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, and support staff for their unwavering support and belief.

“A heartfelt thank you to the fans as well — your energy and encouragement keep us going every step of the way.”

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ICC unveils nominees for Player of the Month awards for March 2025

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday unveiled the nominees for the Men’s Player of the Month for March 2025, featuring India’s Shreyas Iyer and the New Zealand duo Rachin Ravindra and Jacob Duffy.

Ravindra earned his nomination on the back of an impactful all-round show in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The left-handed batter notched up 151 runs at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 106.33, alongside picking up three wickets at a tidy economy rate of 4.66.

Ravindra’s standout moment came in the semi-final against South Africa, where he slammed a brilliant 108, his second century of the tournament, and stitched a 164-run stand with Kane Williamson, helping New Zealand post the highest-ever total in Champions Trophy history.

Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer played a vital role in India’s title-winning campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, finishing as the team’s highest run-scorer.

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The right-hander amassed 172 runs in three ODIs at an average of 57.33 and a strike rate of 77.47.

While his top score (79) came during India’s group-stage clash against New Zealand, Iyer also chipped in with key contributions in the knockout stages, scoring 45 in the semi-final against Australia and 48 in the final versus the Kiwis.

Jacob Duffy, on the other hand, found his place on the list thanks to a stellar run in the recent home white-ball series against Pakistan, which included five T20Is and three ODIs.

Duffy finished as the highest wicket-taker in the T20I leg, bagging 13 wickets at an exceptional average of 8.38 and an economy of 6.17. His consistent performances also took him to the top of the ICC Men’s T20I bowling rankings.

He also struck early in the ODI series, claiming two wickets in the first match to end the month with 15 wickets in six games.

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Iyer, Gill help India crush Australia to clinch ODI series

Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill hit attacking centuries to help India thrash Australia by 99 runs in a rain-hit ODI on Sunday to clinch the series 2-0.

Iyer (105) and Gill (104) put on a dominant second-wicket stand of 200 to lay the foundations for India’s 399-5 after being invited to bat in Indore.

Stand-in-skipper KL Rahul’s 52 and an unbeaten 72 by T20 sensation Suryakumar Yadav contributed to the mammoth total and the bowlers then combined to hand India an unbeatable lead in the three-match series.

The matches are a tune-up for the World Cup in India starting October 5.

Captain Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli will return for the final ODI in Rajkot on Wednesday and the team will have to make some tough calls in picking the starting XI.

“It (selection) is the headache of the coach and Rohit…whoever gets picked has a job to do,” said stand-in skipper Rahul.

“Sitting out can be hard after scoring a lot of runs but everyone has been through that.”

Chasing a DLS revised target of 317 in 33 overs after rain interrupted play in the chase, Australia were bowled out for 217 in 28.2 overs.

Spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja took three wickets each.

Australia have lost five ODI matches in a row but skipper Steve Smith remained hopeful of a quick turnaround.

“We have lost quite a few (matches) in a row, in South Africa and here. We need to sort out a few things,” said Smith.

“We have a few days now, we are working towards the World Cup, both the teams are. Hopefully, we’ll turn it around in the last game.”

Indian batsmen set up victory after a flying start and Iyer, 28, put doubts over his fitness to rest, hitting his third one-day century before being caught.

Iyer hit 11 fours and three sixes in his 90-ball knock and was named man of the match.

The 24-year-old Gill, who hit 74 off 63 balls at Mohali in the first game, raced to his sixth ODI century and fifth this year with a single off Sean Abbott.

Gill’s knock ended when he was caught by wicketkeeper Alex Carey off Cameron Green. He hit six fours and four sixes in his 97-ball innings.

Ishan Kishan was dismissed for 31 before Rahul and Yadav propped up the innings with fluent knocks.

Green took two wickets but gave away 103 runs off his 10 overs.

In reply, Australia lost two wickets for just nine runs and were 56-2 when rain interrupted play for over an hour and the tourists resumed with a new target.

David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne attempted to rebuild in their stand of 80 but the wheels came off the chase after their departure.

Ashwin broke the stand and then struck twice in one over to send back the left-handed Warner and Josh Inglis.

Green attempted to hit back but was run out before Abbott led an unexpected charge with his 36-ball 54.

Number eight Abbott put on a ninth-wicket stand of 77 with Josh Hazlewood, who made 23.

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