In 1982, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan suffered a life-threatening spleen injury during the shooting of the film Coolie, a moment that left the entire nation in shock and worry. Over four decades later, Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer has sustained a similar kind of injury, though, fortunately, his condition is now stable and he has been moved out of the ICU.
During the third ODI in Sydney, Iyer was seriously injured after taking a spectacular catch off Australian batter Alex Carey. Running back from the backward point, he landed awkwardly and hurt his left rib area. Soon after, he began feeling unwell, and his blood pressure dropped significantly in the dressing room, prompting immediate hospitalization, as per reports.
Medical scans revealed a laceration in his spleen — a tear or rupture in the spleen tissue. This type of injury can be dangerous if not treated in time, as it may lead to internal bleeding. Thankfully, prompt medical attention prevented a major crisis. As per reports, Iyer’s condition is stable, and doctors are closely monitoring his recovery.
According to a BCCI statement released on Monday, “Shreyas Iyer sustained an impact injury to his left lower rib cage region...He was taken to the hospital for further evaluation. Scans have revealed a laceration injury to the spleen. He is under treatment, medically stable, and recovering well,” the statement read. “The BCCI Medical Team, in consultation with specialists in Sydney and India, is closely monitoring his injury status. The Indian Team Doctor will remain in Sydney with Shreyas to evaluate his day-to-day progress.”
A few of Iyer’s close friends are with him in Sydney, while his family is preparing to fly from Mumbai to be by his side during his recovery.
What is a Spleen Injury?
The spleen is a vital organ that filters blood and helps fight infections. Spleen injuries can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of internal bleeding. Minor injuries often heal naturally within a few days, while severe cases may require surgery.
Doctors say Iyer’s injury appears to be self-healing, meaning it might recover naturally without surgical intervention. He will likely remain hospitalized for a few more days and then need several weeks of rest before resuming training.
India’s next ODI series is scheduled against South Africa in late November, but it remains uncertain whether Iyer will recover in time. The BCCI and team management have decided not to rush his return to the field. He was already not part of the upcoming T20 series against Australia, beginning October 29.
