Did Shreyas Iyer fake his injury to avoid playing Ranji Trophy for Mumbai?

On Friday morning, a bombshell hit Indian cricket as reports surfaced about Shreyas Iyer's injury, potentially keeping him out of the upcoming Rajkot Test against England. Allegedly suffering from back stiffness, Iyer's absence adds to India's mounting injury concerns in the ongoing Test series.

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However, within hours, another twist emerged as a conflicting report suggested that the Indian Cricket Board's medical team had given Iyer the green light for the remaining series. This revelation comes at a crucial juncture, with speculation surrounding Iyer's spot in the squad due to recent subpar performances.

Rumours circulated that he was slated to play a Ranji Trophy match for Mumbai, but his reported back spasm and minor groin issue prevented his participation. Adding fuel to the controversy, another news portal hinted at a possible fake injury scenario orchestrated by Iyer. Allegedly, Iyer did it to sidestep the Ranji Trophy match, a move that would have necessitated his departure from the national squad.

Drawing parallels to a similar situation a few years ago when Iyer, playing for Mumbai, faced a similar scenario. It was reported that then-chief selector Ajit Agarkar's intervention coerced him to play as he threatened to send reports of his unavailability to his IPL franchise and national team.

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Shreyas Iyer underwent back surgery last year!

It's essential to note that Shreyas Iyer underwent back surgery in April 2023 to address a slipped disc causing excruciating pain. Despite missing the IPL, where he captains the Kolkata Knight Riders, Iyer made a comeback during the Asia Cup, only to be hindered by recurring back spasms.

Further, in January 2024, he was dropped from the T20I squad against Afghanistan. However, Iyer assessed his match fitness with a Ranji Trophy appearance for Mumbai against Andhra, scoring 48 in his lone innings. With uncertainty surrounding Virat Kohli's availability, Iyer found a spot in the XI for the first Test, competing with KL Rahul for a middle-order position.

Rahul's injury in the second Test helped him retain his position, but as Rahul is set to make a comeback, his position continues to be in jeopardy. As speculations and conspiracy theories swirl, the selectors face a crucial decision regarding Iyer's inclusion or turning to Rajat Patidar, who impressed in his debut during the second Test. The anticipation for India's squad announcement intensifies, adding layers of drama to the unfolding narrative surrounding Shreyas Iyer's controversial injury status.