Shreyas Iyer’s Shocking Revelation: How Paralysis and Pain Shaped His Comeback Journey

Team India’s star batsman Shreyas Iyer has opened up about the most challenging phase of his career, leaving fans stunned. In a candid revelation, Iyer disclosed that in 2023, he suffered a severe injury that led to paralysis in one of his legs. He shared this emotional story during an exclusive interview with GQ India, shedding light on his journey of pain and resilience.

Paralysis and Spine Surgery

Shreyas Iyer revealed that a back injury in 2023 became so severe that it caused one of his legs to stop functioning completely. “No one can understand the pain I went through,” he said. “One of my legs was paralyzed, and I underwent spine surgery where a rod was inserted in my back. It was an extremely painful and frightening experience. The pain from my back to my heel was unbearable, and it terrified me.”

This injury forced Iyer to miss the 2023 IPL and the World Test Championship final. During this period, Delhi Capitals appointed Rishabh Pant as captain in his absence, and Iyer later parted ways with the franchise.

Key Role in World Cup and Champions Trophy

Despite the setback, Shreyas Iyer made a remarkable comeback, playing a pivotal role in guiding India to the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. He was the third-highest run-scorer for India in the tournament, behind Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, providing much-needed stability at the number 4 position—a long-standing challenge for the Indian team. Additionally, Iyer played a crucial role in India’s victory in the Champions Trophy.

IPL 2024 Captaincy and Controversy

In 2024, Iyer led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their first IPL title in a decade. His exceptional captaincy and individual performances earned widespread praise. However, KKR surprisingly did not retain him for the next auction, with reports suggesting financial disagreements as the reason.

Iyer also revealed that many doubted the severity of his injury. “People think players are robots who can go out and score runs every time,” he said. “But no one understands the reality of injuries and pain.”

Exclusion from Asia Cup 2025

Recently, Shreyas Iyer was left out of India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025, a decision that disappointed him. Nevertheless, his determination and hard work continue to make him an inspiration in Indian cricket.

An Inspiring Comeback Story

Shreyas Iyer’s journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. His battle with adversity not only made him a stronger player but also an inspiration for young cricketers. His story underscores that success is possible even in the face of overwhelming challenges.