Mohammed Shami wasted no time making an impact at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Playing his first match after a long injury layoff, he delivered a dream start for India against Bangladesh in Dubai. With his signature upright seam position, Shami dismissed Soumya Sarkar in the very first over, caught behind by KL Rahul.
“In the absence of Bumrah, you want someone to stand up, and Shami has done it in the first over. It’s that seam position again, isn’t it? We have seen it go down absolutely perfect,” remarked former England captain Nasser Hussain during live commentary.
The Struggles of Injury and Recovery
Shami’s journey back to the field was anything but easy. Reflecting on his struggles, he shared, “From being in great form during the World Cup to suddenly needing an operation—it was really difficult.”
His troubles began during the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia, where he suffered an ankle injury. In February 2024, he underwent surgery for his Achilles tendon, which was further complicated by swelling in his left knee. As a result, he was out of international cricket for over a year.
“My first question to the doctor was, ‘How many days until I can be back on the field?’ He told me, ‘The priority is let’s get you to walk. Then, jog. Then, run. Competitive cricket is still a distant goal,’” Shami recalled.
Fighting Doubts and Finding Strength
The long rehabilitation period tested Shami’s patience and mental strength. “I wondered when I would be able to put my feet on the ground again. Someone who is used to running constantly for 12 months a year was now dependent on crutches,” he said.
Describing his initial fears post-surgery, he revealed, “After 60 days, when they asked me to put my feet on the ground, you won’t believe me, but I have never been more scared to do so. It felt like I was starting a new life, like a toddler learning how to walk.”
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Determination and the Road Back to Cricket
Despite the setbacks, Shami remained determined, crediting his family and the BCCI for their support. “You endure the pain and take it one step at a time without complaints or bitterness. The passion for representing my country has brought me this far,” he said.
His dedication paid off, and his return to the Indian squad for the Champions Trophy was a testament to his perseverance. “It was tough and there was pain, but with resilience and patience, I made it through. My motivation has always been to serve my country for as long as possible because once you step away, you’re just like anyone else,” Shami concluded.
His inspiring comeback not only strengthens India’s bowling attack but also serves as a lesson in resilience and self-belief for aspiring cricketers.