Shreyas Iyer is staring at a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a frightening rib injury during the ODI series against Australia. The Punjab Kings captain was hospitalised following the incident and has been recovering since, but early reports suggest he may not return to competitive cricket until the IPL in March 2026. His next appearance for India might only come in June 2026.
Doctors Advise Complete Rest, No Strain on Abdomen
According to a report by Dainik Jagran, the nature of Iyer’s injury is serious enough for doctors to instruct him not to place any strain on his body, especially the abdominal region. His stomach continues to cause discomfort, and he has been told to avoid all exercises or movements that could affect the injured area.
The recommendation comes after an ultrasonography test, which showed positive signs of recovery but also indicated that Iyer must be extremely cautious. The BCCI has been consulting renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, who has overseen major athlete recoveries, including Rishabh Pant and Neeraj Chopra.
Another Test Pending; International Return Only After June
Iyer is expected to undergo another ultrasound in the coming months, which will determine the next steps in his rehabilitation. The 31-year-old has battled multiple injuries over the past few years, resulting in an inconsistent international run.
His absence is a major blow for India, as he is set to miss the ODI series against South Africa at home and the subsequent New Zealand series. Iyer had established himself as a vital part of India’s 50-over setup, particularly after standout performances in the 2023 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy, where he excelled at the crucial No. 4 position.
Return Target: IPL 2026 — But Even That Isn’t Guaranteed
Iyer is expected to return to the field during the next IPL season, where he is slated to lead the Punjab Kings after their runners-up finish last year. However, depending on how quickly he heals, he may even miss a portion of the IPL.
India now face a leadership crisis as well. With Iyer injured and vice-captain Shubman Gill dealing with a neck spasm, the ODI side is suddenly without both newly appointed leaders ahead of the South Africa series — just a month after their appointments. The selectors will now have a tough call to make regarding a temporary captain.
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