Shreyas Iyer Appointed Mumbai Captain for Remaining Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches

Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has been appointed captain of the Mumbai team for the remaining matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 season. The decision comes after all-rounder Shardul Thakur was ruled out of the tournament due to injury, prompting the team management to hand leadership responsibilities to Iyer for the final phase of the competition.

Mumbai, who are placed in Group C of the tournament, will play their last two group-stage matches in Jaipur. The team is scheduled to face Himachal Pradesh on January 6, followed by a fixture against Punjab on January 8. The upcoming matches are expected to be important for Mumbai’s campaign, making leadership stability a key factor.

Shreyas Iyer’s appointment is notable as he has not played competitive cricket since sustaining an injury during the One Day International series against Australia. Due to the same injury concerns, he was also left out of India’s home series against South Africa, as selectors opted to manage his workload and recovery carefully.

Although Iyer has been named in the squad for the ODI series against New Zealand, his final participation will depend on clearance from the Centre of Excellence. The medical assessment will determine whether he is fully fit to return to match action without risk.

Mumbai’s decision to place Iyer in charge reflects confidence in his leadership abilities and experience at both domestic and international levels. Team officials believe his presence could provide composure and direction as the side looks to finish the group stage on a strong note.