Shami Shares His Journey of Overcoming Injury Challenges to Make International Cricket Comeback
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Mohammed Shami recounts the struggles and fears he faced while recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him for over a year. His determination to represent India again fueled his comeback in international cricket, showcasing resilience and passion.
Key Takeaways
- Mohammed Shami faced challenges in returning to cricket after a serious ankle injury.
- He was sidelined post-2023 ODI World Cup, where he was the leading wicket-taker.
- Shami made a successful return in Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy.
- His determination and passion for playing for India were crucial in his recovery.
- Shami aims to continue representing India as long as possible.
Dubai, Feb 20 (NationPress) Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has opened up about the challenges he faced during his return to international cricket following an ankle injury in 2023. He expressed that there were moments when he feared he might never have the chance to represent his country again.
Shami sustained his ankle injury during the ODI World Cup in 2023, which sidelined him for over a year. He last played for India during the final against Australia, where he was the tournament's leading wicket-taker.
He marked his successful return to professional cricket in a Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh at Indore, achieving seven wickets to help his team secure a win.
In addition, he spearheaded the Bengal bowling lineup in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, clinching nine wickets in 11 matches with an economy rate of 7.85, including a standout performance of 3-21 against Hyderabad.
Unfortunately, Shami was unable to participate in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series due to a recurrence of his injury. Nevertheless, the 34-year-old successfully returned in four white-ball matches for India against England in the past month.
Now, he is eager to further his comeback by playing for India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday.
“Going from peak form during the World Cup to suddenly facing surgery was incredibly difficult,” Shami recounted. “My first question to the doctor was ‘how long until I can get back on the field?’ He mentioned that the priority was to first be able to walk, then jog, and eventually run. The thought of playing competitive cricket felt like a far-off dream.”
“I constantly pondered when I would be able to place my feet back on the ground. Someone who is used to constantly running was now reliant on crutches,” Shami added.
“For the initial two months, I often questioned whether I would ever play again, as an injury of this nature followed by a 14-month hiatus can be quite disheartening,” he admitted.
Shami emphasized that the aspiration to once again don the Indian jersey fueled his determination to overcome the pain.
“When they finally instructed me to put my feet on the ground after 60 days, I was terrified. It felt like I was starting anew, akin to a toddler learning to walk, and I was anxious about potential complications. The courage and passion to represent my country have been my greatest motivators, and the desire to wear the India badge kept me moving forward,” he said.
“You endure the pain and progress one step at a time, without complaints or bitterness. The passion for representing my country has carried me this far. It was challenging, and there was considerable pain, but I persevered with resilience and patience,” Shami reflected.
The star bowler further stated that he would continue representing India for as long as his body permits.
“My motivation has always been to serve my nation for as long as I can. Once you step away, you become just like anyone else. Today, by the grace of God, I am back playing for India and feeling much better,” Shami concluded.
