Shreyas Iyer is set to return to competitive cricket through the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The Mumbai batter has recovered well from injury and received clearance to play domestic matches.
His comeback has boosted hopes of a return to India’s white-ball squad.
The 30-year-old could feature against Himachal Pradesh on January 6.
Selectors view this match as a crucial test before his international comeback.
Reports confirm Iyer completed his first 50-over return-to-play simulation on January 2.
The Vijay Hazare match will serve as his second RTP assignment.
Both simulations form a key part of BCCI’s fitness protocol.
Medical staff will declare him fully fit only after smooth completion.
Timing remains Iyer’s biggest challenge.
India will announce the ODI squad for New Zealand on January 3.
His selection depends on medical clearance and selector patience.
The panel will closely track his Mumbai outing.
Iyer reported to the BCCI Centre of Excellence on December 25.
He focused on strength, conditioning, batting, and high-intensity fielding drills.
He suffered a serious injury on October 25 against Australia.
A fall near the boundary caused internal bleeding and spleen damage.
The setback ruled him out for months.
India tested new middle-order options during his absence.
Competition has increased as the team plans for the 2027 World Cup.
