Mohammed Shami, a Team India and Gujarat Titans (GT) bowler, is expected to miss the whole 2024 Indian Premier League. The surgery on his left ankle is likely to occur in the United Kingdom.
Mohammed Shami had been dealing with the ailment after his historic 2023 ODI World Cup campaign at home. Following the event, he visited professionals in Mumbai and London to resolve the issue.
His inclusion in the South Africa tour hinged on his ankle’s condition. Sadly, he couldn’t recover in time. He missed the two-test match series and the current five-match clash with England at home. His ankle issue kept him sidelined.
According to a PTI report, Mohammed Shami received unique injections as part of his therapy. However, because that specific course of treatment has not produced the intended outcomes, surgery has been recommended as a last resort.
“Shami was in London in last week of January to take special ankle injections and he was told that after three weeks, he can start light running and take it from thereon,” a senior BCCI source said on the condition of anonymity.
“But the injection hasn’t worked and now the only option left is surgery. He will shortly leave for UK for surgery. IPL seems out of question,” the source added.
Mohammed Shami’s absence from the IPL 2024 very certainly takes him out of contention for Team India’s 2024 T20 World Cup roster. The setback comes as a significant shock to the Gujarat Titans (GT), who are also starting a new era under Shubman Gill.
“Just two months of rest and injections wouldn’t have worked well” – BCCI official unhappy with NCA’s verdict on Mohammed Shami’s injury
Given that Mohammed Shami’s ankle has not improved significantly since the World Cup, despite discussions with doctors, one may question why the physios at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) suggested surgery immediately. A large delay in procedures might mean Mohammed Shami is only eligible to the national squad at the end of the year.
“Shami should have gone directly for surgery and that should have been NCA’s call. Just two months of rest and injections wouldn’t have worked well and that’s what has happened. He is an asset and the Indian team would need him in Australia,” the source said.
India’s team is hopeful for Mohammed Shami’s availability in the vital upcoming Australia tour. His participation in the home season following the T20 World Cup may be unnecessary, and team management may not want to take a chance.