Mumbai is going to get a big boost with Shreyas Iyer joining the team for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, regular captain and all-rounder Shardul Thakur has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury concerns, and Iyer will take on the leadership role and captain Mumbai in their next two matches.
Iyer is set to make a comeback for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, starting with the Elite Group C clash against Himachal Pradesh in Jaipur on January 6. He will also play Mumbai’s final group match against Punjab on January 8. After that, Iyer will join the Indian cricket team for the ODI series against New Zealand.
Shreyas Iyer ready to lead Mumbai after Shardul Thakur’s injury
According to Sportstar, Shreyas Iyer will take charge of Mumbai after regular captain Shardul Thakur suffered a calf injury while bowling in the last match against Maharashtra. Thakur has undergone an MRI scan and is likely to be ruled out of the remainder of the tournament.
Iyer is set to lead Mumbai in the remaining matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, including the final group-stage match against Punjab on January 8. He has already received fitness clearance from the BCCI Center of Excellence, allowing him to participate in the tournament.
After completing his domestic duties, Iyer will join the Indian team for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, provided his fitness status remains intact.
Shardul Thakur doubtful to play in Mumbai’s Vijay Hazare Trophy matches
Shardul Thakur suffered a calf injury during the defeat to Maharashtra in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Jaipur, forcing him to leave the field midway through his spell. The issue has raised concerns about his availability for the remainder of the tournament.
Notably, Mumbai Cricket Association has not released the official update yet. According to Times of India, Thakur may miss the remaining matches of Vijay Hazare Trophy. He is expected to remain in Jaipur under close observation, his return will depend on the scan results and medical feedback.
“Even if he misses the remaining VHT league games, Shardul will remain in Jaipur and will be regularly monitored by the Mumbai team physio. Based on the outcome of his scan, a decision will be taken about his future availability,” a source following the developments told this paper.
His absence could be a big blow for Mumbai, as Thakur has been their best bowler so far. He has taken 11 wickets in five matches at an impressive average of 9.54, including match-winning spells against Chhattisgarh and Goa.
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