Shami told the ICC that after being in excellent form during the World Cup, I suddenly found myself on the operation table. Getting injured after such a great form was truly a very difficult phase.

India’s veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami has revealed that there were moments during his ankle injury when he feared that his international career might be over. However, his unwavering desire to play for the country kept him motivated to push forward.

Shami suffered an ankle injury during the ODI World Cup final against Australia in November 2023, which required surgery. Swelling in his left knee further complicated matters, keeping him out of international cricket for 14 months.

Speaking to the ICC, Shami said, “After being in outstanding form during the World Cup, I suddenly found myself on the operating table. Getting injured after such a great run was an extremely difficult phase for me.”

He added, “During the first two months, I often doubted whether I would be able to play again. An injury like this and being out for 14 months can really test your spirit.”

However, the 34-year-old made a successful return to international cricket earlier this month, playing two T20s and two ODIs against England. With Jasprit Bumrah now sidelined due to injury, Shami is set to lead India’s bowling attack in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Shami recalled, “My first question to the doctor was how long it would take for me to return to the field. The doctor told me that his first priority was to help me walk, then jog, and then run. Playing competitive cricket was still a long way off.”

Transitioning from being an active player to relying on crutches was a mentally challenging period for him.

“I kept thinking about when I would be able to put my foot on the ground again. Many thoughts ran through my mind. After 60 days, when the doctors finally asked me to place my foot on the ground, you won’t believe it, but I was afraid to do so for the first time in my life.”

Shami described the experience as a fresh start. “It felt like I was learning to walk again, like a child taking their first steps. I was worried about facing any difficulties. But throughout this journey, my relentless desire to play for my country kept me motivated.”