Shreyas Iyer is not part of India’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa because he is still recovering from a serious spleen injury sustained in Australia. Medical reports indicate that he will need more than a month to regain full match fitness, and the BCCI does not want to rush his comeback. Therefore, he remains unavailable for the South Africa ODIs starting November 30, 2025.
Reason for Absence
- Iyer suffered a lacerated spleen while attempting a diving catch during the third ODI in Sydney against Australia on October 25, 2025.
- His injury caused internal bleeding and a significant health scare, including a drop in oxygen levels and a brief hospital stay.
- As of this week, doctors estimate he needs additional time, likely over a month before returning to top-level cricket.
BCCI’s Approach and Replace
The BCCI and selectors have decided on a cautious approach and want to ensure Shreyas Iyer is fully fit before his return.
Who Can Replace Shreyas Iyer?
- Tilak Varma
Tilak Varma is considered a strong candidate to replace Shreyas Iyer in the India ODI squad for the series against South Africa starting November 30, 2025. Varma, a left-handed batter known for his composure and ability to rotate the strike, has already played four ODIs with a modest record but has impressed with his recent performances in T20Is and domestic cricket. Other options discussed are Riyan Parag and Sanju Samson, but Tilak Varma is often highlighted as the most natural like-for-like replacement for Iyer in ODIs.
- Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson is considered one of the ideal replacements for Shreyas Iyer in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa if Iyer remains unfit to play. Samson has a strong ODI record, having played 16 matches and scored 510 runs at an impressive average of 56.66, including a century and three fifties. He usually bats higher up the order but was successfully tested in the middle order during the Asia Cup 2025, showcasing his adaptability and attacking batting skills.
Timeline of Return
Shreyas Iyer’s next possible international appearance could be the home ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11, 2026, if he is declared fit by then.
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This development is a setback for India’s middle order, but the priority is ensuring Iyer’s complete recovery before he resumes playing.
