Shreyas Iyer undergoes ICU treatment in Sydney for internal bleeding from rib trauma

Sydney- Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer is undergoing treatment in a Sydney hospital after suffering internal bleeding from a rib injury. The injury occurred during the third ODI against Australia when he pulled off a spectacular catch to dismiss Alex Carey. However, the effort caused severe pain in his left rib cage, forcing him to leave the field soon after.

According to reports, Iyer was taken to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after doctors detected internal bleeding. Sources close to the team said he had been in the ICU for two days as doctors worked to stop the spread of infection. “He will stay under observation for two to seven days depending on recovery,” a source told PTI.

The BCCI medical team responded quickly when Iyer complained of sharp pain and showed unstable readings after returning to the dressing room. “The team doctor and physio didn’t take any chances. They rushed him to the hospital immediately. He’s stable now, but the situation could have turned serious,” the source added.

Initially, doctors estimated a three-week recovery period. However, given the internal bleeding, Iyer’s rehabilitation may take longer. “He needs more time to recover, and it’s hard to give a definite return date right now,” the source said.

Iyer, who was serving as India’s ODI vice-captain on the Australian tour, had been showing signs of returning to form. He scored a fighting half-century in Adelaide after struggling in the first match. Despite his efforts, India lost the series 1–2. In the final ODI, India cruised to victory, led by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, so Iyer didn’t get a chance to bat.

This latest setback adds to a string of injuries that have disrupted Iyer’s career. Earlier this year, he suffered a back injury during the Test series against England and had to withdraw midway. The controversy deepened when, despite being cleared fit by the National Cricket Academy (NCA), he skipped a Ranji Trophy match, which led to the loss of his central contract.

Following back surgery in the UK, Iyer returned after months of rehabilitation and regained his spot in the Indian ODI squad. However, recurring back spasms have continued to trouble him. Recently, he informed the BCCI about his decision to take a six-month break from red-ball cricket to focus on recovery.

The BCCI confirmed his decision in an official statement. “Mr. Shreyas Iyer has decided to take a six-month break from red-ball cricket due to recurring back issues. He will focus on building endurance and fitness during this period,” the board said.

Despite setbacks, Iyer remains determined to return stronger. His teammates and fans have expressed concern but remain optimistic about his recovery. The next few days will be crucial as doctors monitor his progress in Sydney.

At 29, Shreyas Iyer continues to be one of India’s most promising middle-order batters. His resilience, even through repeated injuries, reflects the grit that has defined his cricketing journey.