An Indian pacer’s left ankle has once again been snapped, and this time, it’s none other than the seasoned Mohammed Shami.
The 33-year-old, who played a crucial role in India’s semi-final performance at the just concluded ODI World Cup, will undergo surgery in the UK. Afterward, some injections were aborted to resolve his ankle issues.
Shami had put up a brave show, recording 24 wickets, with his troublesome hindrance possibly worsening.
Neither BCCI nor Shami has communicated the timeline of his return, but at the same time, the development is a mere setback to his chances of making it to the IPL 2021 finale.
With no cricket since November, Shami was banking on the glitzy league to find his rhythm after a layoff. But his quest for an IPL comeback will now have to wait.
For India, the bigger concern is their marquee fast bowler’s availability for upcoming home assignments. Shami’s ankle surgery puts a question mark on whether he can return in time for the Bangladesh and New Zealand Test series at home later this year.
With a busy international calendar ahead, including a tour of Down Under, India will hope the veteran pacer can recover in time to lead their vaunted pace attack again.
Shami’s extended absence will also spark discussion around injury management, with some already questioning the National Cricket Academy’s handling of his rehabilitation.
At 33, with 195 ODI and 229 Test wickets under his belt, India’s craftiest bowler will be eager to return to the field soon. But for now, his immediate focus will be nursing his ankle back to full fitness.
