Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has made encouraging progress in his recovery from a spleen injury and is back to batting without discomfort. The 31-year-old is now pain-free and trained without any issues in Mumbai on Wednesday, raising hopes of an early return to competitive cricket. Iyer had suffered the injury during the third ODI against Australia on October 25 in Sydney. While attempting a brilliant running catch of Alex Carey at backward point, he injured his left rib area. He was immediately taken to the hospital for precautionary checks, following which he was ruled out of further action. With the New Zealand series approaching, Iyer’s recovery comes as a major boost for Team India, though his selection will depend on medical clearance. Injury update and current condition of Shreyas Iyer According tothe report of TOI, Shreyas Iyer has resumed his regular gym and fitness routine after the injury. BCCI sources confirmed that all post-injury X-rays and medical assessments have shown no cause for concern. Importantly, he has also started batting again without any pain, indicating that his recovery is on track. The right-handed batter is expected to stay at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for four to six days. During this period, the medical team will closely monitor his workload and decide the timeline for his full return to cricket. Shreyas awaits fitness clearance ahead of New Zealand series India are scheduled to play a series of three ODIs and five T20Is against New Zealand starting January 11. The squad for the ODI series is likely to be announced around January 2 or 3. While Iyer’s inclusion is not yet confirmed, his return for the series cannot be ruled out. However, the final decision will rest on whether he receives complete fitness clearance from the BCCI medical team. The selectors are expected to take a cautious approach, considering Iyer’s recent injury history. Vijay Hazare Trophy as a comeback route Shreyas Iyer is attempting to make his competitive comeback through the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Strong performances in the domestic 50-over tournament could further strengthen his case for selection in the ODI squad against New Zealand. If declared fully fit, Iyer will be a strong contender for a middle-order spot, given his experience and consistency in the format. For now, all eyes remain on his fitness updates from the Center of Excellence in Bengaluru. Post navigation 22 centuries in 18 matches on Vijay Hazare’s Day 1:Most number of tons in one day; Karnataka register biggest successful chase Ro-Ko gear up for 2nd match in Vijay Hazare today:Rohit Sharma’s 155 led Mumbai to winning start, Virat Kohli shouldered Delhi’s victory with 131