India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer has returned to the country after suffering a serious on-field injury in Australia. Although his recovery is progressing well, he is unlikely to play in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa starting on November 30.

Injury more serious than first believed

According to The Indian Express, Iyer’s condition was far more severe than initially reported. Sources revealed that his oxygen level had dropped to 50 at one point after the incident. “He wasn’t able to stand properly for nearly 10 minutes. There was a complete blackout around him, and it took some time for him to return to normal,” a senior board official confirmed.

How the injury happened

The Mumbai batsman sustained the injury while taking a diving catch to dismiss Alex Carey during the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25. He was in visible pain and was rushed to a local hospital.

In an official statement, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said, “Shreyas Iyer sustained a blunt injury to his abdomen while fielding during the third ODI against Australia on 25 October 2025, resulting in a laceration of his spleen with internal bleeding.”

The BCCI added, “The injury was promptly identified, and the bleeding was immediately arrested following a minor procedure. He has undergone appropriate medical management for the same.”

Ongoing recovery under medical care

Iyer was discharged from the hospital last week and has since been under close medical supervision at home. Doctors have advised him complete rest for over a month before resuming training.

A BCCI official said the selectors and the medical team are not willing to rush his comeback. “The board and selection committee don’t want to rush him back after the injury,” the official explained. “He will take more time to be fully fit, and his participation in the South Africa series looks doubtful.”

Focus now on long-term recovery

While the injury was a major setback, Iyer’s recovery is being closely monitored by specialists. The management wants him fully fit for future tournaments rather than risk aggravating the injury. For now, his focus remains on rest, rehabilitation, and a gradual return to full match fitness.