Did Rashid Khan Rush Back to Cricket After Surgery?
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Synopsis
In a candid admission, Rashid Khan reveals his regret over returning to cricket too soon after back surgery. He discusses the pressures of performance and personal recovery, shedding light on the physical toll of his choices. Dive into his journey as he balances ambition with the need for recovery in this compelling story.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize recovery over performance.
- Understand the risks associated with returning too soon.
- Seek professional advice before making comeback decisions.
- Balance personal life with professional responsibilities.
- Learn from past mistakes to improve future performance.
New Delhi, Aug 9 (NationPress) Afghanistan’s leading leg-spinner Rashid Khan has acknowledged that he made a misstep by returning to cricket too soon following his back surgery, which took place shortly after the 2023 ODI World Cup.
After a challenging IPL 2025 season, where he allowed 33 sixes while playing for the Gujarat Titans (GT), Rashid took a two-month hiatus and re-entered the game with a match-winning performance of 3-11, leading the Oval Invincibles to victory over London Spirit in their opening match of The Hundred at Lord's.
"Post-IPL, I realized I required a break that would allow my body to recover fully. I focused on my strength training. Especially coming back from back surgery, I didn’t have sufficient time to rehabilitate properly. That’s where I made the mistake of jumping back into cricket too quickly," Rashid stated, as reported by ESPNCricinfo on Saturday.
Rashid successfully led Afghanistan to the semi-finals of the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup, but injuries to his back and hamstring sidelined him from the BBL and PSL. He made his return in January 2025 during the second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, claiming 11 wickets in 55 overs to earn the Player of the Match title. However, the physical strain from this performance was evident in his less-than-stellar showings during the Champions Trophy and IPL 2025.
"Upon returning to the field after surgery, I was cautioned against hastily re-entering longer formats (Tests and ODIs), as that would not aid my recovery. About eight to nine months post-surgery, I bowled 65 (55) overs in the Bulawayo Test. That truly tested my back, and I felt it then. I shouldn't have participated in Test matches at that point," he reflected.
"In T20s, it’s manageable - you can pace yourself - but for longer formats, I was advised to take a break. This was a mistake on my part. However, the team needed me at that time, as we had suffered a few losses in Test cricket. I rushed back without allowing myself enough recovery time, and the repercussions became apparent later on.”
Following the conclusion of IPL 2025, Rashid opted out of the MLC in the USA, where he was set to play for MI New York, to concentrate on his recovery and engage in strength training for his lower back. He also practiced bowling a few times a week, along with batting drills. Off the field, the leg-spinner, who married in October last year, spent quality time with his family.
"After the IPL, I took a three-week break from cricket. I dedicated most of my time to my family and my nephews, enjoying time together to clear my mind of those challenging days before getting back into cricket. This strategy helped rejuvenate me, and I soon got back to bowling effectively," he concluded.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach Rashid Khan's situation with a balanced perspective. His experience serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing health, especially for athletes facing physical challenges. While the drive to perform is commendable, the need for recovery should never be overlooked. We stand with Rashid, emphasizing the need for athletes to prioritize their well-being.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Rashid Khan return to cricket so quickly after surgery?
Rashid Khan felt the pressure to perform for his team, especially after a challenging IPL season, which led him to return to cricket sooner than he should have.
What injuries did Rashid Khan face after his surgery?
After his surgery, Rashid faced injuries to both his back and hamstring, which impacted his participation in various leagues.
What advice did Rashid receive about his return to cricket?
Rashid was advised not to rush back into longer formats of the game, as this could hinder his recovery.
How did Rashid Khan manage his recovery after IPL 2025?
After IPL 2025, Rashid took a break from cricket, focused on strength training for his back, and limited his practice sessions to ensure proper recovery.
What has Rashid Khan learned from his experience?
Rashid has learned the importance of allowing adequate recovery time and not rushing back into high-pressure situations.
