In the final T20 International match against the West Indies Women, England’s victory was bittersweet. Although the new duo of head coach Charlotte Edwards and captain Nat Sciver-Brunt secured their maiden series win in their new roles, the former skipper Heather Knight, who played a crucial role in England’s victory with a match-winning 66 not out, was injured and did not take the field during the West Indies innings.
An MRI scan confirmed a “significant tendon injury” in Heather Knight’s right hamstring, ruling her out of all remaining fixtures this international summer, including the ODIs against the West Indies, the India tour in June-July, and the high-profile Women’s Hundred in August. The injury also threatens her participation in the much-anticipated Women’s World Cup in India this September.
In her first public response to the injury a few weeks back, Knight took to Instagram to share the emotional weight of her latest battle with injury.
“It was fun whilst it lasted… Unfortunately, I’ve damaged my right hamstring tendon pretty badly, and I’ll miss the rest of the international summer and the Hundred, but I’ve got the World Cup in my sights. Pretty gutted; it’s not the best timing, but I’ll be doing everything I can to get back ASAP. I’ve been here before, and I’ll face this head-on like all the challenges I’ve had in my career.”
Now, a couple of days ago, she again posted an update on Instagram. She captioned her post:
“One month down ⏳… The last 2 weeks have gone a lot faster than the first two! Crutches are in the bin, and things are progressing well. Starting slowly with Pilates and some swimming with a float (pretty dull, not going to lie!). 🧘🏊♀️ Got to be patient for a little bit longer to let things heal up, so I’m keeping busy and trying to enjoy being at home and a slower way of life 🙏🏻. Starting some leg loading this week, thankfully, as my legs are starting to resemble twiglets! I’m 2 kg down in muscle, so some work to do! 💪🏼❌”
In one of the posted videos, the former England captain is seen doing stretches at her home. It is clear that she no longer needs crutches, which will be welcome news for England fans. She also shared a photo of her swimming lesson, which may be part of her water recovery therapy. She is also seen spending time with friends and family, making the most of her time away from the game. In another video from the thread, she is captured hitting a few shots at a golf course, an activity she has previously said she enjoys as a recreational pastime.
On the post, her admirers and teammates are expressing their best wishes for her speedy recovery.
With the World Cup just a few months away, both the England team and fans will be hoping that the experienced player will be able to join the squad.
The former World Cup winner brings experience and remains an irreplaceable figure both in the dressing room and on the pitch. With England aiming for their fifth World Cup title, Knight’s recovery and eventual inclusion in the squad will be vital to their campaign.
