India's key middle-order batsman, Shreyas Iyer will likely be out of action for the next 4-5 months as he gets set to undergo back surgery, according to media reports. Shreyas Iyer's recurring back problem kept him out of action during different parts of the Border Gavaskar series, as he missed the first test at Nagpur before returning to the team for the second test at Delhi.
As per reports, Iyer is set to undergo surgery to treat his lower back injury issue. If he goes under surgery, then he will not be available for the entire IPL 2023 and will also miss the World Test Championship final against Australia, slated to be held at the Oval from June 7 to 11.
Shreyas Iyer’s absence will be a body blow to the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders as he is their captain and a premier batter. He was roped in by KKR for INR 12.25 crore in the mega auction last year.
Shreyas suffered a recurrence of a back injury during the recently held Ahmedabad Test against Australia. He didn’t come out to bat during the first inning due to a back problem.
Ahead of the start of the fifth day’s play, the BCCI issued a statement, “Shreyas Iyer will take no further part in this Test. A specialist opinion will be sought.”
After the Border-Gavaskar got over, India skipper Rohit Sharma provided an update on Iyer's injury and revealed that the scans didn't look good.
Team India is already dealing with injuries to Rishabh Pant and Jaspreet Bumrah, each of whom missed the recently concluded Border Gavaskar series. Iyer's absence further dents India's chances at the WTC finals against Australia in June this year. It also hampers the team's preparations for the all-important 50-over World Cup to be held in India later this year.
The team will now hope Iyer makes a complete recovery in time for the 50-over World Cup in India later this year. The Mumbai-born batsman has been one of the most dependable players for the Indian team, especially in the crucial no.4 position that proved decisive in India's semifinal exit at the 2019 ICC World Cup.