Shreyas Iyer Captains Mumbai in VHT Push

Shreyas Iyer steps up as Mumbai captain for the remaining Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26 league games, replacing injured Shardul Thakur. The India ODI vice-captain, returning from a spleen injury since October 2025, leads Group C side against Himachal Pradesh on January 6 and Punjab on January 8 in Jaipur. This leadership role marks his competitive comeback, vital for Mumbai's knockout aspirations in the domestic 50-over spectacle.

Iyer's career boasts a List A average of 47.52 across 114 matches, with 4,378 runs including 14 centuries, anchoring India's middle order. Mumbai sits mid-table in Group C, needing wins to surge into knockouts after mixed results sans Thakur's all-round 28 wickets this season. His captaincy echoes Rohit Sharma's Syed Mushtaq Ali guidance, blending experience with Mumbai's rich legacy of 42 domestic titles.

Iyer's Return: Stats Signal Domination

At 31, Iyer averages 52.1 in VHT history, smashing 1,234 runs with a strike rate of 92.4. Post-injury, expect calculated aggression like his 2023 ODI WC 203* vs Netherlands. Compared to Thakur's absence (15.2 bowling average), Iyer's tactical acumen—evident in Kolkata Knight Riders IPL triumphs—could elevate Mumbai's 245-run average chase rate. Jaipur's batsman-friendly pitches favor his cover drives.

VHT Shake-Up: Mumbai's Knockout Charge

Mumbai (4 wins from 7) trails leaders by points, but Iyer's helm shifts dynamics amid Group C's tight standings—Punjab leads with 24 points. His leadership impacts India's white-ball setup pre-T20 WC, mirroring Gill's domestic captaincy success. A strong finish secures quarters, boosting resumes for IPL auctions.

"Shreyas is expected to lead the side in both games." - ESPNcricinfo report

Jaipur Double-Header: Title Hunt Begins

Victories over HP and Punjab propel Mumbai to semis contention. Iyer's form will signal ODI readiness—fans watch if he recaptures 50+ average. With domestic crunch time, this saga shapes India's 2026 campaigns.