Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has successfully undergone surgery to address a shoulder injury that had prevented him from participating in the ICC World Cup 2023, set to commence in India. The update regarding Naseem Shah’s surgery was shared by his manager, Moghees Sheikh, via a social media platform.
Moghees Sheikh conveyed that Naseem Shah’s spirits were high following the minor shoulder procedure and requested well-wishers to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. He also expressed optimism about Naseem Shah’s imminent return to cricket. After the surgery, the young pacer was advised to undergo a period of rest and rehabilitation for a duration of four to six weeks before resuming his bowling activities.
Regrettably, due to the injury and the subsequent recovery process, Naseem Shah is expected to be sidelined from action for a considerable period, approximately three to four months.
The injury that led to this setback occurred during Pakistan’s second game against India at the Asia Cup 2023. During the 46th over of the match, Naseem Shah left the field on the reserve day designated for that particular game. Shortly thereafter, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a press release, officially ruling him out of the remainder of the tournament.
It’s important to note that Naseem Shah’s injury pertained to a muscle located just below his bowling shoulder and was not a recurrence of any prior shoulder injuries.
In light of Naseem Shah’s unavailability for the ICC World Cup 2023, Pakistan has made a replacement in their squad. Hasan Ali, a fellow pacer who last participated in an ODI match for Pakistan in 2022 against West Indies in Multan, has been named as Shah’s replacement in the World Cup squad.
This development underscores the challenges and uncertainties that can affect professional athletes, but it also reflects the resilience and dedication required for a successful return to the sport.
