Shreyas Iyer, the skilled Indian batsman, made a remarkable return to cricket during the Asia Cup. However, there has been considerable debate among fans and analysts regarding his fitness and whether he is fully prepared for the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Shreyas Iyer’s highly awaited comeback to cricket after a prolonged injury break hasn’t gone as smoothly as hoped. The talented Indian batsman recently returned to action during the Asia Cup, but concerns about his fitness have left fans and cricket experts questioning his readiness for the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Iyer’s journey back to the field hit a stumbling block just before India’s Super Four clash with Pakistan. He was all set to play, but an unexpected back spasm forced him to sit out. KL Rahul, who stepped in as his replacement, made the most of the opportunity and delivered a stunning century that made headlines.
In the following Super Four match against Sri Lanka, Iyer once again found himself out of the playing XI, causing worry among supporters and analysts. With the ODI World Cup 2023 looming, Iyer’s fitness remains a significant uncertainty.
Having been sidelined since March due to a back injury requiring surgery, Iyer’s return to the Asia Cup generated much excitement. During recent practice sessions, he appeared to be on the path to recovery, showing no obvious signs of discomfort while facing fast-bowling throwdowns and net bowlers.
However, the BCCI has been clear that he hasn’t fully regained fitness, leading to his exclusion from the playing XI against Bangladesh in the last Super Four game. It also appears unlikely that he’ll participate in the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka on September 17.
With just three ODIs against Australia and two practice matches left, time is running out for the dynamic batsman. If he doesn’t regain full fitness, KL Rahul will continue to occupy his batting position, and Ishan Kishan may also secure a regular spot.
It remains to be seen whether Shreyas Iyer can make a complete recovery before the ODI World Cup 2023, especially with India scheduled to play three ODIs against Australia after the Asia Cup concludes.