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Shami Visits Mumbai Orthopaedic For Ankle Treatment; Doubtful For Boxing Day Test vs SA

image-lpmua678Mohammed Shami ended up as the leading wicket-taker of World Cup 2023 

In a concerning development for the Indian team, star speedster Mohammed Shami is currently battling an ankle ailment that necessitates medical intervention. This situation has emerged as the Men in Blue gear up for the challenging first Test against South Africa, set to commence on December 26 at Centurion.

Shami consults with orthopaedic specialist in Mumbai

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has included Shami in the Test squad, but his participation hinges on his recovery from the ankle condition. Despite his name being on the team list, the BCCI has made it clear that his availability will depend on his fitness levels, and details about the exact nature of his injury are not fully disclosed.

According to an anonymous BCCI source, Shami sought medical advice in Mumbai, consulting with a sports orthopaedic expert for his ankle issue, which is reportedly not related to any on-field injury.

His rehabilitation and recuperation process are expected to continue at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). The BCCI's decision to select him for the squad indicates optimism about his potential recovery in time for the important Boxing Day Test.

“It is not exactly an on-field injury. It is an ankle condition that has developed. Shami came to Mumbai to consult the doctors. He will also go to NCA for rehab and recuperation work. The national selectors wouldn’t have selected him had there not been a chance of him getting fit in time for the Boxing Day Test,” said the source.




It is worth mentioning that Shami's contribution to the Indian team has been significant, particularly in the recent World Cup 2023. He missed the first four matches due to team composition strategies but made a notable entry in the fifth match, replacing Hardik Pandya, who suffered an ankle ligament injury.

Shami's performance was stellar, taking 24 wickets in seven games and playing a crucial role in India's consistent performance, which led them to the final before losing to Australia.

Furthermore, the fast bowler's fitness was a topic of concern when he was observed walking with a slight limp while attending a Bengal Vijay Hazare Trophy game to support his younger brother, Mohammed Kaif.

Looking forward, Shami's participation in a three-day intra-squad match between India Seniors and India A, which is part of the preparations for the Tests, remains uncertain. Moreover, Shami is expected to focus on Test matches for the near future, avoiding white-ball games.

This decision aligns with the Indian team's schedule, which includes seven Test matches, featuring a critical home series against England. His role is especially vital in subcontinental conditions, where his skill in reverse swing bowling is highly valued.