Shreyas Iyer Likely To Be Fit For First ODI Against New Zealand

India vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is reportedly close to full fitness and is expected to be available for the first ODI against New Zealand.

India vice-captain Shreyas Iyer has been named in the 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The team was announced on January 3, with the BCCI noting that Iyer’s selection depends on his fitness. Iyer last featured in competitive cricket on October 25, 2025, during India’s match against Australia in Sydney. Recent updates suggest a positive outlook on his availability. Iyer is now expected to be in contention for the first ODI scheduled on January 11 in Vadodara.

According to reports from Cricbuzz, a BCCI source has indicated that he is 99 per cent fit. The final assessment will focus on his ability to handle a full workload. That evaluation is expected during his appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

“He is almost there. He should be available 99 percent for the first game itself. The one per cent doubt from the CoE is whether he can come through the 100 overs, and it will be ascertained in the Vijay Hazare game,” Cricbuzz quoted the source as saying.

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Shreyas Iyer will join the Mumbai team in Jaipur on January 5. He is scheduled to feature against Himachal Pradesh at Jaipuria Vidyalaya Ground. If cleared by the BCCI medical staff, Iyer will immediately travel to Vadodara to join the ODI squad.

If fitness concerns persist, he may also play Mumbai’s final Elite Group C match against Punjab on January 8. In the unlikely event of his unavailability, Ruturaj Gaikwad stands as the backup option. Gaikwad previously scored a century batting at No. 4 against South Africa in Raipur on December 3.