Shreyas Iyer reveals 7-kg weight loss during recovery from freak Australia injury

Shreyas Iyer recalls tough recovery after Australia injury, ready to lead Punjab Kings in IPL 2026

Shreyas Iyer has opened up on the challenges of returning from a serious injury, revealing he lost seven kilos during his rehabilitation, as he prepares to captain Punjab Kings in the 2026 Indian Premier League. Speaking at a press conference in Chandigarh, the India ODI vice-captain reflected on the physical and mental effort required to regain full fitness.

“It is always challenging to come back after an injury. I had lost around seven kilos and it took a lot of effort to gain that weight back,” Iyer said. “But I love challenges. I am glad I overcame that part of my life, and I am back here proudly representing the team.”

Spleen injury derails momentum

Iyer suffered a spleen injury during India’s series against Australia national cricket team in October 2025, keeping him out for nearly two months. The injury forced him to miss the ODI series against South Africa national cricket team as well as the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, disrupting a key phase of his season.

He completed rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and returned to competitive cricket in early 2026, marked by a fluent 82 off 53 balls for Mumbai cricket team in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, signalling his readiness to compete at the highest level.

Eyes on IPL glory

With recovery behind him, Iyer’s focus is now on leading Punjab Kings to success. PBKS narrowly missed out on their first IPL title last season, finishing runners-up to Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Having previously captained Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL 2024 title, Iyer brings leadership experience and resilience to Punjab Kings. The team will be looking to build on last year’s momentum and finally secure a maiden IPL trophy, with Iyer’s comeback adding an inspirational edge to their campaign.