Aoba Tanaka 
Shreyas Iyer’s absence from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy final against Vidarbha at the Wankhede Stadium has raised eyebrows among cricket enthusiasts. Despite his stellar performance, scoring a rapid 95 runs off 111 balls during Mumbai’s second innings on the third day, Iyer’s absence on the following day due to back pain has left a void in Mumbai’s lineup.
Sources have revealed that Iyer received treatment for his back issue throughout the day, with hopes of returning to the field on Thursday. However, his anticipated comeback did not materialize, prolonging concerns about his fitness.
This isn’t the first time Iyer has faced setbacks due to his back troubles. Following discomfort after the second Test against England, he was sidelined from the squad for the remaining Tests despite being cleared of any injury by the BCCI’s medical team. Subsequently, he missed Mumbai’s last Ranji Trophy league match due to back spasms, although he actively participated in the pre-season camp for the Kolkata Knight Riders, the IPL franchise he is set to captain in 2024.
Criticism surfaced when Iyer opted to skip Ranji Trophy games despite being free from international commitments, prompting a warning from BCCI Secretary Jay Shah against prioritizing the IPL over domestic cricket, citing “severe implications.” Consequently, Iyer missed Mumbai’s quarter-final and was excluded from the list of centrally contracted players.
Despite these challenges, Mumbai remains in a strong position in the title contest, having set Vidarbha a daunting target and effectively containing them to 248 for 5 as the final day approaches. As fans eagerly await the outcome, the spotlight remains on Iyer’s recovery and Mumbai’s quest for Ranji Trophy glory.
