Shreyas Iyer, India's ODI vice-captain, is set to return to international cricket after suffering a serious spleen injury while attempting to catch Alex Carey in the third ODI in Sydney on October 25. Iyer had to undergo a minor operation after internal bleeding from a spleen laceration and missed India's 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa. Since then, Iyer has proved his fitness by playing Mumbai's last two league games in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT), scoring 82 and 45.

However, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has cautioned Iyer to avoid rushing his comeback. Bangar emphasized that Iyer should be mindful of the pressure to start well in the ODI series opener against New Zealand. “The one risk is that you can get hurried, wanting to start well and contribute immediately. That is what Shreyas Iyer should be mindful of. But he has made a good comeback, playing well for his home team in domestic cricket. He understands ODI cricket very well,” Bangar said.

Bangar also praised Iyer for his performances in the 2023 World Cup, highlighting his dominance against spin, which was a treat to watch. "His skills will be very useful. In the last series, Ruturaj Gaikwad got the number four spot for his spin play. Now Shreyas Iyer returns and takes that spot back, so his strong point will be used fully," said Bangar.

In addition, Bangar spoke about Shubman Gill’s early days as India's ODI captain, calling him a "work in progress" who will improve with more leadership experience. “It is early days. Shubman Gill had a great Test tour of England and a tough one in Australia. You cannot judge him too much right now. It is a work in progress. The more he captains, the better he will get,” Bangar said. He added that Gill has strong leadership support from experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Bangar also emphasized the advantages of playing ODIs at home, with spin-friendly conditions and a settled batting order. “Leading in home ODIs should not be a problem for Shubman Gill. You are playing in your own backyard. You have fantastic spinners like Kuldeep Yadav who can do the job. With high-performing batters like Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul being consistent in different roles, there are many batting positives," Bangar concluded.

India’s ODI series against New Zealand starts on January 11 in Vadodara.