The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 begins December 24, with BCCI mandating all senior players play at least two matches for their states, yet Shreyas Iyer is the sole exception, skipping despite Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s participation. In the last edition of VHT, Iyer captained Mumbai, but this time he has not been selected in the squad. Amid buzz around his participation in the ongoing tournament, here are the latest updates on his absence from VHT 2025.
Why is Shreyas Iyer Not Playing Vijay Hazare Trophy?
While Rohit Sharma (Mumbai vs Sikkim, Dec 24) and Virat Kohli (Delhi vs Andhra, Dec 24) return to domestic 50-over cricket at Chinnaswamy and Jaipur venues, 31-year-old Shreyas Iyer sits out. The reason for his absence is a serious spleen injury sustained while fielding in the third ODI against Australia, catching Alex Carey, which led to hospitalization in Sydney. Currently, the right-hand batsman is recovering and not fully fit.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has waived fines for him, recognizing the medical severity. According to BCCI policy, a player can be excused from the Vijay Hazare Trophy only if declared unfit by the Centre of Excellence, a standard that applies across the board.
The rule ensures white-ball sharpness ahead of India’s New Zealand ODIs (Jan 2026), forcing stars like Jasprit Bumrah back home. Kohli arrived from London with family, ready for Delhi under Rishabh Pant; Rohit leads Mumbai against Shardul Thakur’s side.
READ MORE: Why is Shubman Gill Not Playing Today For Punjab in Vijay Hazare Trophy?
Shreyas Iyer Injury Update as He Might Named in IND vs NZ ODI Squad
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer, picked up at the IPL Auction 2026, is recovering from injury. He recently posted an Instagram story showing him running on the field. As per Times of India reports, Iyer has resumed batting, is heading to the BCCI Centre of Excellence, and is likely available for the later stages of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The New Zealand ODI series remains touch-and-go but possible for him.
