Shreyas Iyer’s back troubles have morphed into a complex narrative within Indian cricket. In a recent press conference on the eve of the IPL 2024 Final, Iyer’s comments hinted at frustration, suggesting his concerns about a back injury were not taken seriously. This veiled jab at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) comes amidst a series of confusing events that casted a shadow over his fitness level and the clarity of communication surrounding his injury.
A sensational World Cup marred by recurring pain
The saga began in early 2023 when a back injury sidelined Iyer from crucial series and tournaments, including the World Test Championship Final. He underwent surgery in April, missing the entire IPL 2023 and jeopardizing his participation in the mega 2023 ODI World Cup later that year. However, he was on a rout during the tournament. He hammered 526 runs at an amazing average and strike rate of 70.17 and 106.6, respectively.
However, Iyer’s comments suggest all may not have been smooth sailing. He hinted about raising concerns on residual pain even after recovering at the NCA. These concerns, according to Iyer, were not adequately addressed.
Confusion in fitness and stripped from from BCCI contract
Despite his concerns, Iyer received a clean bill of health from the NCA. However, reports emerged that the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) deemed that the star batsman was enduring pain in his back. However, the BCCI’s decision to exclude him from the central contract list contradicted the MCA’s assessment. This move created a wave of confusion and cast doubt on the transparency within the Indian cricket board.
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Replying BCCI with authority
Further muddying the waters, Iyer opted out of the Ranji Trophy quarter-final against Baroda, citing a recurrence of his back issue. This decision fueled speculation about his true fitness level. However, in a defiant display, Iyer took the field for the Ranji Trophy final against Vidarbha. He silenced his doubters with a fighting knock of 95 in the second innings, showcasing his immense talent and unwavering spirit.
Shreyas Iyer clarifies that no one agreed to him!
Iyer’s recent press conference comments, where he hinted at his concerns being disregarded, clarifies the major part of the saga, however. When asked about the about his back issue during the press conference on the eve of IPL 2024 final in Chennai, the 29-year-old said, “Basically I was struggling after the ODI World Cup in terms of longer format. And when I raised my concern no one was agreeing to it. But at the same time, the competition is with myself.”
His suggestion that his concerns about the back injury were not taken seriously highlights a potential lack of clear communication between him and BCCI and NCA.
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