India’s middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer is recovering in a Sydney hospital after sustaining what reports have called a “life-threatening” injury. The incident occurred during the third ODI between India and Australia on Saturday, when Iyer fell awkwardly while attempting a catch. His vital signs dropped to dangerous levels soon after, and he was rushed to the hospital.
Doctors placed him in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where scans revealed internal bleeding caused by a spleen laceration. He has now been shifted out of the ICU and is reported to be in stable condition.
Surya Confirms Iyer Is Recovering
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, India’s T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav said he had been in touch with Iyer and confirmed that his teammate was stable.
“We spoke to him,” Surya said. “When we got to know about his injury, I called him. Then I realised that Shreyas doesn’t have his phone on him, and I called our physio Kamlesh Jain, who told us that he’s stable.”
He added, “(About how he was on the) First day, I can’t say much, but he’s looking good (now). We’ve been in touch for two days, and he’s been replying. If he’s able to reply on the phone, then he’s stable.”
Under Medical Observation
Surya mentioned that doctors are continuing to monitor Iyer’s recovery closely.
“Doctors are there with him; it’s looking good. Everything is normal, but he will be kept under observation for a few days. He’s been talking to everyone, so it’s good,” Surya said.
Team Initially Thought the Injury Was Minor
The Indian captain also recalled how the team initially believed the injury was minor before its seriousness became clear.
“See, we’re not the doctors. When we saw it from the outside, it appeared he was normal after taking the catch. Only those who were there (with him on the field) can say (how bad the injury was). After going into the dressing room, they realised he will need more care. Then he was rushed to a specialist who revealed what has happened. Eventually, he started talking normally,” Surya explained.
“Rare Incident With a Rare Talent”
Despite the tense situation, Surya managed to lighten the mood while praising Iyer.
“Doctors and physios said it was an unfortunate injury; this is quite rare. Shreyas is also a rare talent. Rare incidents happen with rare talent. But it’s fine, God has been with him and he’s recovering well. BCCI is in full support, and we will take him home alongside,” he said with a smile.
Iyer’s Recovery and Team Support
The Indian team and management continue to stay in touch with Iyer and his family. The BCCI medical team is overseeing his treatment and recovery process in coordination with doctors in Sydney.
For now, Iyer remains under close medical observation, but signs of steady improvement have brought relief to his teammates and fans alike.