Punjab Newsline, Sports:
Shreyas Iyer appointed Mumbai captain for remaining Vijay Hazare Trophy matches as Shardul Thakur ruled out due to injury
The excitement of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 continues, with several key updates emerging from the tournament. Veteran batter Virat Kohli, who delivered impressive performances in the opening two matches, will not feature in the next game. According to team management, Kohli has been rested as part of workload management to ensure his fitness for the crucial matches ahead. His absence is expected to bring changes to the team combination in the upcoming fixture.
Meanwhile, Indian batter Shreyas Iyer is set to make his return to competitive cricket on Tuesday, providing a major boost to the Mumbai team. Iyer, who had been sidelined for a long period due to injury, has been appointed captain of Mumbai for the remaining matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Regular skipper Shardul Thakur has been ruled out of the tournament after sustaining an injury, following which the responsibility of leadership has been handed to Iyer.
Shreyas Iyer had suffered a serious injury in October last year during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney. He sustained an injury to his spleen, which resulted in internal bleeding and forced him to stay away from cricket for an extended period. After receiving medical clearance, Iyer is now considered fully fit. His return is expected to significantly strengthen Mumbai’s batting line-up as well as the team’s leadership on the field.
In addition, there has been a positive update regarding the fitness of young batter Shubman Gill. According to team sources, Gill’s health has improved, and he is likely to be available for selection in the upcoming matches if required. His recovery will be closely monitored by the team management.
Overall, the presence of star players, key comebacks, and strategic changes have added further intrigue to the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26, making the tournament even more competitive and engaging for fans.