Mohammed Shami Undergoes Heel Surgery; Set To Miss IPL 2024
Shami's recovery will take time. (X.com)
India and Gujarat Titans (GT) speedster Mohammed Shami has successfully undergone heel surgery, although he recognises that it will require some time to fully regain fitness.
Earlier, it was revealed that Shami would undergo surgery in the United Kingdom (UK). While the successful surgery brings relief to fans, it also means Shami is likely to miss this year's IPL along with the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.
On Monday, Shami shared images on social media, providing updates on his injury and surgery.
"Just had a successful heel operation on my Achilles tendon! Recovery is going to take some time, but looking forward to getting back on my feet quickly. Love you all," Mohammad Shami wrote on his Instagram handle.
Shami played a crucial role in India reaching the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with 24 scalps in seven games. However, it was later revealed that he wasn't fully fit during the tournament and had played through it with injections.
Following the World Cup, Shami missed the T20I series against Australia and the entire South Africa tour.
The Arjuna Awardee's expected return for the Afghanistan series before the T20 World Cup 2024 did not materialise. Speculation arose about his availability for the ongoing Test series against England, but he was ultimately ruled out of the entire series.
It has come to light that the Indian fast bowler traveled to the UK in January to receive special injections for his ankle. Subsequently, he was advised to begin light running after three weeks. However, the injections did not yield the desired results, leaving surgery as the only remaining option.
Mohd. Shami To Miss IPL 2024 and T20 World Cup 2024
With the injury requiring surgical intervention, Shami is anticipated to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for a strength and rehabilitation program. As a result, Shami's participation appears to be unlikely at this point.
Shami's absence will be a significant setback for his IPL franchise, Gujarat Titans, which enjoyed considerable success in its first two seasons. His impressive performance earned him the Purple Cap last year, having taken 28 wickets in 17 matches.
While the Gujarat Titans have yet to make an official announcement, it is expected to come soon, especially with the schedule for the first half of IPL 2024 already released, and the season set to begin on March 22.
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