Uttar Pradesh all-rounder Prashant Veer endured a major injury scare during his side’s Ranji Trophy clash against Jharkhand in Lucknow, raising concerns just weeks before the start of the Indian Premier League. According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, initial medical assessments suggest Veer has suffered a grade-2 shoulder tear, an injury that could potentially keep him out of action for at least three weeks.
The timing of the setback is far from ideal for the 20-year-old, who is preparing for his maiden IPL season with Chennai Super Kings. Veer was the costliest uncapped Indian player at the IPL 2026 auction, underlining the faith CSK have placed in his ability as a future all-round package. With less than two months remaining before the tournament begins, his recovery will be closely monitored by both state and franchise medical teams.
The injury occurred on the opening day of the Ranji Trophy match, just before the lunch break. Fielding at mid-off in the 30th over of Jharkhand’s innings, Veer dived sharply to his right to stop a firmly struck drive from Shikhar Mohan. Although he managed to prevent a boundary, the young all-rounder landed awkwardly on his right shoulder and stayed down in visible discomfort.
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The on-field medical staff immediately attended to him, applying a pain-relief spray before escorting him off for further evaluation. He later returned to the stadium with his arm in a sling, effectively ruling him out of further participation in the match.
PRASHANTH VEER INJURY UPDATE
After Scans, it’s Grade – 2 Shoulder Sprain Injury
I guess it’s major, 4-6 Weeks ? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/EOnAXj2gXE
— Prakash (@definitelynot05) January 23, 2026
Jharkhand capitalised on the situation and dominated the day, reaching 279 for 1 by stumps. Opener Sharandeep Singh remained unbeaten on 128, while Mohan (78) and Aryaman Sen (64*) provided solid support on a batting-friendly surface.
Veer’s absence was felt keenly, given his growing stature in domestic cricket. A powerful middle-order batter who can also bowl effective left-arm spin, he has built an impressive early résumé. In nine recognised T20 matches, Veer has scored 112 runs at a strike rate of 167.16 and picked up 12 wickets at an average of 16.66, highlighting his value as a genuine all-rounder.
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He rose to prominence during the 2025 UP T20 League, where he was named Emerging Player of the Season after a stellar campaign for Noida Super Kings. Veer amassed 320 runs in 10 innings at an average of 64 and a strike rate exceeding 155, while also claiming eight wickets at an economy of 6.69. Those performances earned him a CSK trial and eventually a lucrative IPL contract, with the franchise viewing him as a long-term middle-order option following their decision to part ways with Ravindra Jadeja.
Veer was also in fine touch during the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy, contributing with both bat and ball across eight matches. With vacancies in CSK’s middle order, both the player and the franchise will be hoping for a swift recovery ahead of the IPL season, which starts in late March.
