Shreyas Iyer's Blazing 82 Ignites Comeback: Mumbai Captain Shines in Vijay Hazare Thriller

Shreyas Iyer marked a stunning return to competitive cricket with a blistering 82-run knock off 53 balls, featuring 10 fours and three sixes, leading Mumbai to a thrilling seven-run victory over Himachal Pradesh in a rain-curtailed Vijay Hazare Trophy match on January 6, 2026.

The 31-year-old batter, who had been sidelined since October 2025 due to a severe spleen laceration and internal bleeding sustained while attempting a diving catch during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney, showed no signs of rust in his first competitive outing post-recovery. Iyer's injury was critical, with his oxygen levels dropping to 50 percent and experiencing a blackout, but after rigorous rehabilitation and completing return-to-play protocols at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, he earned clearance to feature for Mumbai.

Appointed as stand-in captain replacing the injured Shardul Thakur, Iyer rescued Mumbai from 55 for 2 after early dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan in the 33-over contest delayed by fog at Jaipuria Vidyalaya Ground in Jaipur. He forged crucial partnerships, adding 82 runs with Musheer Khan (73 off 51) and 65 with Suryakumar Yadav, helping Mumbai post 299 before Shivam Dube's nervy final over sealed the win as Himachal fell short at 292.

This performance comes ahead of India's three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting next week, where Iyer has been named vice-captain, subject to final fitness clearance from the BCCI. Having successfully completed his first 50-over return-to-play match on January 2, this Vijay Hazare outing strengthens his case for a national team return.

Iyer's leadership and batting prowess propelled Mumbai into the Vijay Hazare knockouts, underscoring his readiness for international duties after months on the sidelines.