'Getting better every day' - Shreyas Iyer shares positive recovery update after spleen injury

India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer recently shared a much-needed positive update following a serious spleen injury he suffered during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney. The 30-year-old, who was briefly admitted to the ICU after the near-fatal on-field incident, thanked the fans for their support and revealed to them that his road to recovery is progressing steadily.

"I'm currently in the recovery process and getting better every passing day. I'm deeply grateful to see all the kind wishes and support I've received - it truly means a lot. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts," he wrote on X.

Specialists in both Sydney and India to monitor Iyer’s progress

The incident occurred when Iyer made a brilliant diving effort to dismiss Alex Carey off Harshit Rana’s bowling. Though he looked to have completed the catch cleanly, Iyer immediately clutched his abdomen in discomfort. He was assisted off the field by the team physio, but his condition deteriorated soon after as his vital signs dropped, leading to his urgent hospitalization.

Subsequent scans at St. Vincent’s Hospital revealed a grade-two laceration to his spleen, resulting in internal bleeding. The Indian team’s medical staff and Sydney specialists stabilize his condition. A hospital insider later revealed that the first few hours after admission were critical, as the cricketer's blood pressure had fallen significantly. Fortunately, the bleeding was contained without requiring surgery.

The BCCI confirmed in an official statement that Iyer’s condition had stabilized and that he was responding positively to treatment. The board also added that Iyer’s progress would continue to be monitored in consultation with specialists both in Sydney and India.

India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, speaking ahead of the series opener in Canberra, opened up about Iyer's condition. Notably, a spleen injury requires 6–12 weeks of rest, with doctors advising against any form of physical strain or contact to prevent re-bleeding. While Iyer’s condition continues to improve, he is expected to be ruled out of India’s upcoming ODI series against South Africa in November-December. His participation in the home series against New Zealand in early 2026 also remains uncertain, depending on his rehabilitation progress.