Shreyas Iyer scores half-century in Vijay Hazare Trophy, puts selectors on notice
Shreyas Iyer scored a significant half-century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, strengthening his claim for higher selection after a long injury period.
Shreyas Iyer was named the vice-captain of the ODI squad for the NZ series. Image | BCCI on X
Last Updated: 01.59 PM, Jan 06, 2026
India's ODI vice-captain, Shreyas Iyer, slammed a stellar half-century in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025. Iyer, who was out of the team for a considerable amount of time due to injury in the Australia tour has now played his first game and looked in stunning form. He bashed 82 runs from just 53 balls including 10 fours & 3 sixes against Himachal Pradesh.
After Mumbai captain Shardul Thakur was injured and ruled out of the tournament, Iyer was handed over the team's responsibility. The right-handed batter has been named in India's ODI squad but the board had mentioned that his selection in the playing XI will be subjective to his medical clearance.
With the knock, he has proved that he is fit and ready for a comeback in the Indian team. Iyer is one of the best middle-order batters in the team and the world has witnessed his heriocs in the ODI World Cup 2023 and the Champions Trophy 2025. Hence, his come back is definitely a good news for the Indian team.
Will Shreyas Iyer play in IND vs NZ series?
Shreyas Iyer's availability was never in question for the upcoming 3-match ODI series against New Zealand. But, his fitness was the main issue that was holding him back. Infact, the BCCI have included him in the team with a hope that he'll be fit and be able to play the ODI series. Now that Iyer has performed in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, there is no reason for him to miss the upcoming series.
The fans will get to see a strong team during the ODI series as Shubman Gill is also back after injury. He will lead the team along with Iyer as his deputy. Both the players missed quite a few series and will be eyeing for a strong come back. Fans will also get to watch Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in action once again.
Where to watch IND vs NZ matches?
Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs New Zealand matches from January 11 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.