Sydney, Australia – Indian batter Shreyas Iyer is currently recovering in a Sydney hospital after suffering a lacerated spleen during the third One Day International (ODI) against Australia. The incident occurred on Saturday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) when Iyer landed awkwardly while attempting a catch to dismiss Australian batter Alex Carey.
Iyer, 30, was immediately treated on the field after clutching his side and grimacing in pain. He was then taken to the hospital for further evaluation and scans revealed the extent of the injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Iyer sustained an impact injury to his left lower rib cage region while fielding, resulting in a laceration to his spleen.
Following the diagnosis, Iyer was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for close monitoring and treatment. Recent reports indicate that his condition has improved, and he has been moved out of the ICU to a regular monitored ward. His vital signs have stabilized, and the bleeding appears to be under control. The BCCI has assigned a team doctor to remain in Sydney to monitor Iyer's day-to-day progress and collaborate with specialists in both Australia and India on his treatment plan.
A lacerated spleen can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the severity of the tear and the amount of internal bleeding. In Iyer's case, prompt medical attention was crucial to prevent complications. Doctors responded swiftly, as internal bleeding can quickly become dangerous if not managed effectively.
While Iyer's condition is now stable, he will remain under close observation in the hospital for about a week. Daily scans will be conducted to ensure the spleen is healing properly and that there is no new bleeding. Once discharged, he will need to take things slowly for a few months, avoiding any physical contact, impact, or heavy activity. The spleen typically takes 6-12 weeks to heal completely. A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicates that such injuries require urgent intervention and monitoring to avoid complications.
The typical recovery period for a spleen injury is between 6 to 12 weeks, suggesting that Iyer will likely miss a significant portion of upcoming cricket matches. After the initial critical period, doctors will gradually allow him to move, eat, and recover normally, while continuously monitoring his condition. Once the medical team is confident that the spleen has healed, Iyer will begin gentle physical training before slowly returning to full fitness.
The Indian team won the match against Australia by nine wickets. However, Australia secured the series victory, having won the first two matches in Perth and Adelaide.
The BCCI and medical professionals are optimistic about Iyer's recovery, emphasizing that most people with spleen injuries make a full recovery, especially if the injury is mild and caught early.
