Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer, the team's ODI vice-captain, is showing positive signs of recovery following a severe injury sustained during the third ODI against Australia on October 26, 2025. In a pre-match press conference ahead of the first T20I on October 29, T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav provided an encouraging update, revealing that Iyer has begun responding to messages and engaging in phone conversations.

Shifted out of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at a Sydney hospital on October 27, the 30-year-old batter is now in stable condition and under observation for a few more days. Yadav's comments have alleviated widespread concerns among fans and teammates, highlighting Iyer's resilience amid a challenging tour Down Under.

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Medical scans confirmed the extent of the damage, underscoring the risks of high-intensity fielding in international cricket. Yadav recounted his immediate concern, noting he tried calling Iyer but connected through the physio before recent direct interactions.

Yadav emphasised the optimism surrounding Iyer's progress, stating, "Agar woh reply kar raha hai (If he is able to reply over the phone), that means he is stable. It's looking good... He has been replying and talking to everyone, which is good." The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical head, Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, praised the on-site team's swift response in a communication to the board, crediting their actions with preventing a life-threatening escalation. This incident adds to a string of injury concerns for India during the multi-format series, testing squad depth and medical protocols on foreign soil.

As Iyer recuperates, his family is en route to Sydney for support, a move that could aid his emotional recovery alongside the physical. The episode serves as a stark reminder of cricket's physical toll, particularly for aggressive fielders like Iyer, who has been pivotal in India's white-ball setups since his debut in 2017. With the T20I leg underway, Yadav's leadership will be crucial in maintaining focus, while the BCCI monitors Iyer's timeline for a potential return, possibly eyeing the IPL or future bilateral series. Fans remain hopeful for a full comeback from the stylish right-hander, whose absence underscores the fragility of international schedules.

Also Read: BCCI Confirms: Shreyas Iyer Stable After Rib and Spleen Injury, Out of ICU in Sydney