Sydney: In a bittersweet end to India’s ODI series against Australia, the visiting team clinched a nine-wicket victory in the decider here, avoiding a clean sweep after the hosts had already pocketed the trophy.
While fans rejoiced at former skipper Rohit Sharma and chasemaster Virat Kohli rediscovering their batting mojo, star middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer was dealt a cruel blow, sidelined for at least three weeks due to a rib injury sustained during fielding.
The incident unfolded in the 34th over of Australia’s innings. With the visitors batting first, Harshit Rana’s delivery saw Alex Carey edging one that ballooned towards the backward point. Iyer, ever the committed fielder, sprinted backwards and dived spectacularly to pouch a stunning catch. But the landing jarred his body awkwardly. Clutching his abdomen and chest in agony, he writhed on the turf before the medical team rushed him off. The BCCI confirmed he was taken to a hospital for scans, though initial details were withheld.
According to a PTI report citing BCCI sources, Iyer has suffered a jolt to his left-side rib cage, ruling him out of action for the coming weeks. Upon returning home, he’ll undergo further evaluation at the board’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. A possible hairline crack could prolong his absence, even though no fracture has been confirmed as of yet. Such an outcome puts his participation in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa — starting November 30 in Ranchi — under a big question mark.
Iyer’s absence is a massive setback for India, especially with the World Cup on the horizon. The 29-year-old has been a linchpin in the middle order, blending aggression with stability. All eyes will be on Iyer’s recovery as the team heads home, buoyed by the morale-boosting win. Cricket lovers, brace for anxious waits — will the ‘Iyer fire’ return in time?