[WATCH] IND vs NZ 2026: Shreyas Iyer survives dog bite ahead of 1st ODI

Star middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer had a rather unusual moment off the field, just days before his much-anticipated comeback in the first ODI of the upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand. The Indian vice-captain was spotted interacting with fans at an airport, with a dog nearly biting him, in a clip that has gone viral on social media.

In a video circulating online, Iyer can be seen signing autographs as fans gathered to greet him. At one point, a supporter holding her pet dog approached him. Iyer tried to pet the animal, but the dog snapped at him. The batter instinctively pulled his hand back, avoiding any harm, before walking away with a smile. 

Check the video here

Iyer is back in the Indian team after nearly missing three months of International cricket due to a spleen injury he suffered during India’s tour of Australia last year. Recently, he has been cleared by the BCCI Centre of Excellence medical team after they proved his match-readiness at the end of his rehabilitation process. 

The 31-year-old is making a comeback to the team and will walk straight into the playing XI. He recently featured in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, captaining Mumbai. The right-hand batter showed no signs of rust as he played a match-winning knock of 82 off 53 balls against Himachal Pradesh. He continued his fine form against Punjab as well, scoring 45 runs, even though Mumbai lost.

India to face New Zealand, Ro-Ko reunite

The hosts are all set to host New Zealand for a three-match ODI series, starting from January 11. And much of the attention has obviously been garnered by the duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, fondly called RoKo.

Apart from the experienced duo, captain Shubman Gill is also making his return to the format after missing the one against South Africa due to an injury. Yashasvi Jaiswal, despite scoring a century in his last outing, is expected to be the backup opening option, whereas Iyer is expected to bat at No. 4, after Ruturaj Gaikwad made his way out.