Mohammed Shami Takes Inspiration From 'Spirited' Rishabh Pant During Injury Recovery

Mohammed Shami with Rishabh Pant [Source: @riseup_pant17/X]

It has almost been one year since pace bowler, Mohammed Shami last played for India in any form of cricket. He gave his heart and soul to deliver an all-timer in the World Cup 2023, but it took a toll on his body as the seamer was sidelined with a major Achilles' heel injury.

Earlier this year, Shami underwent a successful surgery and continued his rehabilitation under the watchful eyes of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) doctors. The ace bowler was supposed to return back on the field, a couple of months ago, as he was eager to play a couple of matches in the Ranji Trophy.

Shami takes inspiration from fighter Rishabh Pant

However, his comeback was delayed due to a swollen knee which dented his confidence and hid comeback in the New Zealand Tests. In a recent media event in Gurgaon, Shami was asked about his recovery from the injury to which Shami stated that he has taken inspiration from Rishabh Pant and has learned the art of staying patient.

For context, Pant was involved in a horrific car accident in 2022, and suffered form serious injuries, which included knee ligament damage. However, the star keeper stayed patient, worked on his injury recovery and came back stronger than ever.

"I had spent time with Rishabh at the National Cricket Academy, where he was doing the rehab after his injury. I have seen the images, which were so scary. What inspired me the most that I never saw him sad. All his ligaments were broken but he continued his rehab with a laugh on his face. It was a massive learning for me as well. His positive attitude taught me the importance of patience," he said at an event.

Shami eager for Border-Gavaskar return

After being sidelined for the entirety of 2024, Shami is eager for a Test return, and is targetting the Border-Gavaskar series.

The series is of utmost importance for the India side and the seamer wants to play an important role, Down Under.

"I am hundred per cent pain-free. Everyone has been wondering about if I will play the Australia Tests, but there's a lot of time left for it. I only want to ensure that I am fit and strong before the Australia series," Shami when asked on if he is ready for the BGT.

There is still time left for the India squad to be announced for BGT, and for that, Shami is working hard in nets to prepare his body for the upcoming series.

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