Mohammed Shami participated in ODI World Cup 2023 while taking pain injections: Reports

Mohammed Shami was operating on a different level as he delivered an outstanding performance for the Indian cricket team in the ODI World Cup 2023. Shami even emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the tournament. His exceptional displays played a crucial role in propelling India to the final of this prestigious event. It is also to be kept in mind that the Indian speedster played only seven games in the tournament. He finished the tournament with 24 wickets.

Nevertheless, a recent report reveals that the star India pacer participated in the World Cup despite grappling with a chronic heel problem. If the reports are to be believed in, then he received injections regularly during the World Cup and played the entire tournament through pain. However, as the player grows old, the injury tends to take a lot of time to heal.

“Shami has a chronic left heel issue. A lot of people don’t know that he took injections regularly during the World Cup and played the entire tournament through pain, but you must understand that as you grow older, recovery from each niggle or big injury takes that more time,” a Bengal teammate was quoted as saying by News 18.

Avesh Khan inducted into the side as replacement for Shami

Following this defeat, the Indian Cricket Board (ICB) has announced its decision to include pacer Avesh Khan in India's squad for the second Test. Avesh will fill in for the injured Mohammed Shami, who remains sidelined due to an injury. Although Shami was initially picked for the South Africa tour he could not achieve full fitness in time for the series' start. 

Earlier, the board also delayed Shami's participation in the first Test in Centurion, anticipating his complete recovery. However, with his unavailability persisting for the second Test, the board chose to appoint Avesh as his replacement. The top-ranked Test team globally, India faced a humiliating defeat at the hands of South Africa, losing by an innings and 32 runs. This loss has put an end to all the anticipation surrounding India potentially conquering its ultimate challenge. The most favourable outcome the Indian team can achieve in this series is a 1-1 draw.