The Mumbai Cricket Association turned to Iyer for the crucial role. Mumbai are currently second in Elite Group C with 16 points from five matches, but saw their net run-rate decline after the 128-run defeat. With matches against Himachal Pradesh and Punjab remaining, at least one win is required to secure a spot in the knockouts.
Notably, the 34-year-old has completed his rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Center of Excellence and successfully cleared match simulations earlier this month. His participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy is part of the BCCI’s return-to-play protocol, with the medical team keen to assess whether he can meet the demands of a full 100-person match without pain.
Iyer appointed India vice-captain for NZ ODIs
Meanwhile, Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube will join the Mumbai squad in Jaipur. In-form batsman Sarfaraz Khan, who missed the previous match due to quadriceps discomfort, is also expected to return. Sarfaraz was Mumbai’s standout scorer with 220 runs from three matches at an average of 110. Iyer will be closely watched, especially as Mumbai lacks Thakur’s all-round contributions. The Seamer had been their best bowler to date, taking 11 wickets in five matches at an average of 9.54.
Moreover, Iyer was named India’s vice-captain for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11, but he is yet to be declared permanently fit. The selectors are confident of his recovery and if the Vijay Hazare Trophy runs smoothly, he could feature in one or more ODIs, making his first international appearance since October last year.
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