Gujarat’s IPL Franchise Faces Setback as Star Bowler Mohammed Shami Ruled Out; Also to Miss T20 World Cup

A significant update has emerged just before the start of IPL 2024. India’s star fast bowler Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the IPL. He has suffered a left ankle injury, requiring surgery in Britain. He is expected to return only after surgery, likely in November this year. The news has been provided to the PTI news agency by sources within the BCCI.

Shami’s Recent Engagements

33-year-old Shami has not been part of the ongoing Test series against England. His last engagement was the final of the T20 World Cup against Australia in November.

According to a BCCI insider speaking to PTI, Shami had traveled to Britain for a specialized injection for his left ankle in late January, with indications that he could start light running after three weeks and subsequently undergo the injection.

Surgery in the UK for Shami

As per the senior BCCI source, it was not mandatory to disclose the name, but it was revealed that Shami is not fit for this injection work now, and surgery is the only option. In this situation, Shami will travel to Britain shortly for surgery, making his participation in this IPL season uncertain. This is a big blow for the Gujarat Titans team as well.

Possible Timeframe for Return

As per PTI, Shami is unlikely to participate in IPL or the T20 World Cup after the surgery. It would be challenging for him to remain fit for the scheduled Bangladesh and New Zealand series in September-October. BCCI hopes that Shami will be fit in time for the Test series against Australia, starting in December.

Performance in Previous World Cup

Shami had delivered an excellent performance for India in the previous World Cup, taking 24 wickets in 7 matches with an average of 18.64, making him the Purple Cap winner of the season. His IPL career has been remarkable, playing 110 matches, taking 127 wickets with an average of 26.87 and an economy rate of 8.44. He has twice taken four wickets in an inning.