Overview
- He arrived at the CoE in Bengaluru after a pain-free 30–60 minute net session in Mumbai on December 24 and shared training updates on social media.
- He is expected to spend four to six days undergoing imaging, monitored batting simulations, and fitness drills before a return-to-play timeline is set.
- Recent scans reviewed by sports medicine specialist Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala showed improvement following his October lacerated spleen and internal bleeding at the SCG.
- Selection for the ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11 remains uncertain and is described as touch-and-go or 50-50 pending medical clearance, with the squad announcement due in early January.
- Team and medical sources report no red flags so far and stress he will not be rushed, with a possible interim return via the Vijay Hazare Trophy if NZ ODIs come too soon.