India’s ODI vice-captain, Shreyas Iyer, has sustained a significant rib cage injury that could sideline him for at least three weeks. The incident occurred during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney when Iyer landed awkwardly after taking a sharp catch. While initial assessments suggest a ‘jerk’ injury to his left rib, the exact severity is yet to be confirmed by further scans. This unfortunate setback casts a shadow over his availability for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, scheduled to commence on November 30. Recovery timelines are still uncertain, and his participation is now a major question mark for the team. Iyer had recently found his batting form, scoring a valuable 61 in the previous match and nearing the 3,000-run mark in ODIs. His absence would undoubtedly impact India’s middle-order strategy as they prepare for a demanding international schedule. Despite this blow, the Indian team secured a dominant nine-wicket victory over Australia in the final ODI.
