'I had lost around 7 kg': Shreyas Iyer recalls 'severe' experience before IPL 2026
Batter Shreyas Iyer overcame a severe spleen injury that caused major weight loss, working hard to regain fitness and return to cricket. Now leading Punjab Kings, he is focused on winning the IPL 2026 title. Emphasising teamwork and bonding, Iyer and Arshdeep Singh remain confident about delivering a strong season.
NEW DELHI: Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, batter Shreyas Iyer opened up about a tough phase in his career after suffering a serious spleen injury during the Australia tour. The injury forced him into hospital and led to significant weight loss. “It’s always challenging to come back after an injury.
I had lost around 7 kg due to the injury, it was a severe one. Thankfully, I was back in good shape after two months. But gaining those 7 kg back took a lot of effort.
I enjoy challenges, and that was one I had to overcome. I’m glad I came through that phase and am back representing my team, and also having represented India in the previous series. I feel proud of myself,” Iyer told reporters in the pre-season press conference.
Despite the setback, Iyer worked hard to regain his fitness and return to competitive cricket. He resumed playing as Mumbai’s captain in domestic cricket and had mixed results afterwards, including a modest ODI series against New Zealand. Still, his focus remained on improving and leading from the front.