Sports – Shreyas Iyer, Mumbai’s star batter, will sit out the third-round Ranji Trophy match against Tripura, scheduled from October 26 to 29 at Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram College Stadium. Iyer has requested time off due to personal reasons, which has been accepted by the Mumbai senior men’s selection committee, according to a senior official from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).
Iyer, 29, has been a key player for Mumbai this season, having played in all three domestic games, including the team’s triumphant Irani Cup victory after 27 years. Despite some recent struggles with injury, he showcased his form with a match-winning 142 in Mumbai’s second-round Group A clash against Maharashtra, helping secure the team’s first victory of the Ranji season.
Reflecting on his performance last week, Iyer expressed satisfaction with his return to form after a prolonged injury layoff. “It feels special, coming back after a very long time… getting a century after so long, it’s a great feeling overall,” Iyer said. He also affirmed his commitment to returning to the Indian Test team, stating, “Absolutely, the drive is still to play Tests. That’s why I’ve been playing.”
Iyer had been dealing with a back injury throughout much of 2023, which led to his exclusion from the BCCI’s list of centrally contracted players. However, his contributions to Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy campaign last season, including pivotal performances in the semifinal and final, helped the team secure a record-extending 43rd title.
Iyer’s absence will be a significant one for Mumbai as they prepare to face Tripura, but the team will hope to build on their strong start to the season.