Iyer’s Fitness Update: Why Shreyas Iyer’s Return Is So Uncertain

The Muscle Mass Hurdle

While Iyer has resumed batting without any physical pain, his body hasn’t yet hit the “strength benchmarks” required for the rigors of international cricket.

• The 6-kg Weight Loss: Following surgery for a splenic rupture, Iyer lost nearly 6 kg. Although he has begun regaining weight, the medical team noted a critical dip in his muscle mass, which directly impacts his “optimum strength levels.”
• Impact Absorption: Professional cricket demands high-intensity movements like repeat sprinting and sliding. The BCCI medical team is refusing to take risks, prioritizing his long-term durability over a rushed return.

The “Return to Play” (RTP) Delay

Iyer was originally expected to receive his Return to Play (RTP) certificate by December 30. However, he will now remain at the CoE for at least another week of intensive strength and conditioning work.

🏏 Impact on Short-Term Calendar

The delay has completely reshaped Iyer’s immediate schedule and created a selection headache for the upcoming series against the Black Caps.

1. Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT)

Iyer was slated to play for Mumbai in their group-stage matches on January 3 and 6, 2026 in Jaipur. Those games are now ruled out. An MCA official confirmed that Iyer is now only expected to be available for the knockout stages, which begin on January 12.

2. New Zealand ODI Series

With the first ODI against New Zealand scheduled for January 11 in Vadodara, Iyer’s inclusion is now “touch-and-go.”

• Selection Meeting: The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is set to meet in the first week of January. They will be briefed on Iyer’s status, but he is unlikely to be picked without a competitive match under his belt.
• Who Fills the Gap? In his absence, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Dhruv Jurel—both in sensational form in the current VHT—are the frontrunners for the middle-order spots.

📊 Shreyas Iyer: Recovery Timeline