In a shocking turn of events during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney, India’s vice-captain Shreyas Iyer suffered a spleen laceration and internal bleeding, an injury that briefly became life-threatening before immediate medical attention stabilized him. “It could have been touch and go,” said sources.

The incident occurred when Iyer made a spectacular diving catch to dismiss Alex Carey, landing awkwardly on his ribs and elbow. Initially thought to be a minor knock, panic spread as Iyer collapsed, clutching his abdomen and showing signs of severe distress. His blood pressure dropped, prompting the team’s medical staff to rush him to St. Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney.

Early X-rays suggested rib bruising, but a CT scan revealed a grade-two splenic injury, which can be fatal if untreated. Medical teams acted swiftly to control internal bleeding without requiring surgery. Sources described the next few hours as “critical,” crediting the prompt response for saving his life.

The BCCI confirmed the details, stating Iyer sustained a blunt abdominal injury with spleen damage and internal bleeding that was “promptly arrested.” BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia reported that Iyer’s recovery has been “better than initially expected,” thanking the medical staff for their quick intervention. Team doctor Dr. Rizwan Khan remains in Sydney to monitor Iyer, while his sister Shresta Iyer is flying in to support him.

The dashing cricketer is doing fine; he is apparently talking and smiling at the people around him.

Team captain Suryakumar Yadav reassured fans that Iyer is “recovering well” and communicating with teammates. He will remain under observation for the next few days, with doctors confident of a steady recovery. (With inouts from Agencies)