India fast-bowling allrounder Shardul Thakur has undergone a successful foot surgery, but is expected to be out of competitive cricket for at least three months.
Thakur shared a post-surgery photo on his Instagram account on Wednesday, captioned "operated successfully". It was his second foot surgery; the first one was five years ago in 2019.
The problem recurred during India's South Africa tour in December-January.
He last played for India in the first Test in Centurion in that series. Although he managed to make a return in the Ranji Trophy last season, helping Mumbai win their 42nd title, it is understood he had requested the BCCI for longer breaks between matches to ensure adequate recovery and preparation time.
In IPL 2024, playing for Chennai Super Kings, he managed to pick up only five wickets in nine outings at an economy of 9.75.
Since Thakur is a Grade C annual contract holder of the BCCI, the board paid the expenses for his treatment. There are chances he could be back before or right on time for the upcoming domestic season.