Shreyas Iyer Set for One-Day International Return, Star Batter Likely To Secure Clearance From BCCI's CoE Ahead of IND vs NZ ODI 2025

Indian middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer, in all likelihood, is set to receive a medical clearance to return to One Day International cricket, marking a significant boost for the national squad ahead of IND vs NZ ODI 2025. The BCCI's CoE in Bengaluru is where Iyer is undergoing his full fitness evaluation, following an extensive rehabilitation period for a spleen laceration injury.  New Zealand Squads for ODIs and T20Is vs India Announced: No Place For Kane Williamson in ODI Series, Mitchell Santner To Captain T20I Team.

Iyer's clearance comes as a timely development for Team India, which has been grappling with middle-order stability, particularly with the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 on the horizon.

Road to Recovery

Shreyas Iyer had been sidelined since October 2025, having suffered a blunt abdomen injury during the IND vs AUS 3rd ODI 2025 while fielding. This injury necessitated surgery in Sydney, followed by a rigorous recovery and rehabilitation program under the watchful eyes of BCCI's medical panel.

During his time at the academy, Iyer underwent comprehensive fitness assessments, including intensive batting, fielding, and running drills. Sources within the MCA indicate that he successfully passed all mandatory fitness parameters, demonstrating his readiness for competitive cricket. This clearance allows selectors to consider him for immediate inclusion in the national squad.

Impact on Team India

Iyer's return is expected to provide much-needed solidity and experience to India's middle order. Before his injury, he had established himself as a vital cog in the ODI setup, often tasked with anchoring innings or accelerating the scoring rate. His ability to play spin effectively and his strong fielding are additional assets.

The Indian team management has been actively seeking a stable No. 4 or No. 5 batsman, a role Iyer has frequently excelled in. His presence could alleviate some of the selection dilemmas and provide a more balanced batting lineup, especially in pressure situations. Fact Check: Did Shreyas Iyer Come Out of ICU and Thank Sydney Hospitality After His Injury During India vs Australia ODI Series? Here's Truth About Viral Video.

Iyer's ODI Pedigree

With 1631 runs from 42 ODIs at an impressive average of 46.60 and a strike rate of 96.08, Iyer boasts a strong record in the format. He has scored two centuries and 14 half-centuries, often delivering match-winning performances. His partnership building and ability to rotate strike make him an invaluable asset in the middle overs.

Looking Ahead

While Iyer's medical clearance is a positive step, the immediate challenge will be to regain match fitness and form. He is now available for selection, and speculation is rife about his inclusion in Mumbai's squad for the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 matches. If selected, Iyer will feature against Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh, respectively, and will be crucial in determining his readiness and role for IND vs NZ ODI 2025 on home soil next month.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 28, 2025 06:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).