Mohammed Shami undergoes successful heel operation, recovery ‘to take time’

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami underwent a successful heel operation, but he mentioned that he would require some time to fully regain his fitness.

Earlier reports had indicated that Shami would undergo surgery in the United Kingdom (UK). On Monday, he shared pictures on his social media account, providing updates on his injury and the operation.

“Just had a successful heel operation on my Achilles tendon! Recovery is going to take some time, but looking forward to getting back on my feet,” Shami wrote.

Shami out of action
Shami has not played any form of cricket since India’s World Cup 2023 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium back on November 19. He missed the T20I series against Australia at home, followed by the tour of South Africa.

India also missed Shami’s services in their ongoing 5-match Test series against Ben Stokes’ England. In his absence, the likes of Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep and others have got chances.

Earlier in January, Shami said that he was hoping to recover for the series against England, but the rub of the green did not go his way. “My rehabilitation is well on track and the medical experts at NCA are happy with my progress,” Shami had told the Times of India.

Shami, in the meantime, is also set to miss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The pacer played a crucial role for the Gujarat Titans in the 2022 and 2023 edition of the T20 tournament. Shami picked up 20 wickets in 2022 when the Titans won their maiden IPL title under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, who is now a part of the Mumbai Indians.

Shami also attended the BCCI awards in Hyderabad. It now remains to be seen when Shami returns to action for the Indian team.