Shreyas Iyer's comeback delayed, New Zealand ODI series touch and go after rapid weight loss due to injury: Report

By Admin

31 Dec, 2025

India’s middle-order mainstay Shreyas Iyer is facing another setback in his return to competitive cricket, with reports indicating that his recovery has not yet met the physical benchmarks required for full clearance. While the batter appears comfortable with the bat, concerns around strength loss and muscle mass have pushed his comeback timeline further, putting his availability for the upcoming New Zealand ODI series in serious doubt.

Strength Recovery Still Short of Clearance

Shreyas Iyer’s return has been delayed primarily because his body has not fully regained the strength levels required after his injury. According to officials tracking his recovery, there is no issue with his batting technique or stroke play. However, the concern lies in the physical toll the injury caused during his rehabilitation period.

A BCCI official told the Times of India that Iyer lost nearly six kilograms during his injury stint in Australia. While he has managed to regain some weight since then, a significant drop in muscle mass has affected his overall strength. This has prompted the medical team to adopt a cautious approach, ensuring that he reaches objective strength markers before being cleared for match play.

Batting Fitness vs Match Readiness

The key distinction in Iyer’s case is the difference between being able to bat and being fully match-ready. While net sessions have shown positive signs, professional cricket demands much more than batting fluency. Repeat sprinting, sharp fielding movements, sliding, throwing intensity, and the ability to absorb impact all rely heavily on strength and muscle conditioning.

Rapid post-injury weight loss often impacts these aspects, which is why the medical team has linked Iyer’s clearance to measurable strength benchmarks rather than just the absence of pain or discomfort. Given Iyer’s importance in India’s ODI setup, the management is unwilling to take even a marginal risk.

Vijay Hazare Trophy Return Pushed Back

Initially, there was optimism that Shreyas Iyer would make his return through Mumbai’s Vijay Hazare Trophy group-stage matches scheduled for January 3 and January 6. These games were expected to help him regain match rhythm ahead of the New Zealand ODIs starting on January 11.

However, an MCA official tracking the situation confirmed that Iyer now needs more recovery time. As per the latest update, he is unlikely to feature in the group matches and may only be available from the knockout stages of the tournament, marking the earliest realistic window for his competitive return.

Impact on New Zealand ODI Selection

The delay creates a selection challenge for the Indian team management. Shreyas Iyer plays a crucial role in stabilising the middle overs and offers a reliable option against pace bowling in ODIs. His absence would force the selectors to look at alternative combinations for the New Zealand series.

That said, the same value he brings to the team is also the reason for caution. Medical staff and selectors appear aligned in prioritising complete recovery over a rushed comeback, even if it means missing a short bilateral series. The selectors and team management are expected to be briefed on his current condition before finalising the squad for the New Zealand ODIs.

Long-Term View Takes Priority

While the delay may be frustrating for fans and selectors alike, the approach reflects a long-term vision. With a packed international calendar ahead, ensuring that Shreyas Iyer returns at full strength rather than risking a relapse remains the top priority. For now, his comeback remains touch and go, with fitness benchmarks, not timelines, dictating the final call.