Zaheer Khan's career has been punctuated by injuries and fitness issues. And so expectedly, he knows a thing or two about missing out matches and how it affects a team.
Talking about Ishant Sharma's absence from the ongoing third Test against England in Southampton, Khan said injury to the lanky bowler, who bowled a match-winning spell in second Test, is a blow to MS Dhoni and Co's chances.
"Taking seven wickets in an innings overseas was a highly commendable feat. Ishant must have been looking forward to add on to his tally at Southampton only to see injury ruling him out. Momentum and rhythm is key which is why it's a big blow to our chances," said 35-year-old Khan here at the launch of ProSport, a fitness training and physiotherapy services, on Tuesday.
The performance of bowlers comes under a lot of scrutiny especially when it comes to their performance overseas. Khan said the Indian pace attack have done well in the English conditions and a series win is possible provided they don't over exert themselves.
"We've had a five-match Test series after a long time which makes the issue of being fit throughout the course of the season even more important. We're just halfway into the series so there's still a lot of cricket left to be played.
"Bhuvi (Bhuvneshwar Sharma) and Ishant have done their job but let's not forget Mohammed Shami who despite taking few wickets has struck at the right moment," added Khan.
About ProSport, Khan said, "It's better late than never as I wish such platforms were present when I was in my youth. It would have gone a great deal to lessen the injuries that I've had in my career. We need to start early which is why we're tapping the schools across the city. It's important to start young. What we need to realize that this isn't about sports, it's about getting the right training and staying fit."
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