Dubai, February 20: Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has opened up about the fears he faced during his recovery from a severe ankle injury, admitting that there were moments when he thought his international career might be over. However, his unwavering desire to play for India again kept him going through the tough phase.
Shami sustained the ankle injury during the ODI World Cup final against Australia in November 2023, which required surgery. Adding to the complications, he also experienced swelling in his left knee, which forced him to stay away from international cricket for a challenging 14-month period.
Reflecting on his journey, Shami told the International Cricket Council (ICC), "After such a great form during the World Cup, finding myself suddenly on the operating table was a tough blow. It was an incredibly difficult phase to go through."
The 34-year-old bowler admitted that the initial two months of recovery were filled with doubts and uncertainties, as the long break from cricket tested his mental resilience. "There were times when I questioned whether I would ever play again. An injury like this, coupled with a 14-month absence, can truly test your spirit," he added.
Shami made a successful comeback to international cricket earlier this month, playing two T20s and two ODIs against England. With Jasprit Bumrah still out due to injury, Shami now shoulders the responsibility of leading India’s bowling attack in the Champions Trophy.
Recounting his rehabilitation journey, Shami said, "My first question to the doctor was about how long it would take for me to return to the field. The doctor emphasized a gradual approach—first walking, then jogging, and eventually running. Playing competitive cricket seemed like a distant dream at that time."
Transitioning from an active cricketer to being dependent on crutches was a mentally challenging experience for Shami. He shared, "I constantly wondered when I would be able to put my foot on the ground again. The thought of walking again felt like a monumental task."
When doctors finally allowed him to place his foot on the ground, Shami described the moment as terrifying, saying, "I had never been so afraid to take a step. It felt as if I was learning to walk again, like a child taking their first steps. The fear of things going wrong was always there."
Throughout his recovery, it was Shami’s strong desire to represent India again that fueled his motivation. "The unyielding wish to wear the Indian jersey once more kept me going. It was this drive that helped me overcome every challenge," he concluded.
Now, as Shami prepares for the Champions Trophy, fans and critics alike are looking forward to seeing his trademark pace and swing on the international stage, hoping he can replicate his pre-injury form and lead India’s pace attack to glory.
