Cricketer R Ashwin Withdraws from Big Bash League 15 Following Knee Injury, Focus Shifts to Recovery

Ravichandran Ashwin’s move to the Big Bash League had captured a lot of attention. After retiring from international and IPL cricket, he signed with the Sydney Thunder for BBL 15, making him set to become the first capped Indian male to play in the league. 

Unfortunately, a knee injury during pre-season training means he’s now ruled out, his focus shifted from playing to recovery. Fans eagerly awaited his presence on Australian soil, but an unfortunate injury during training in Chennai has forced him to withdraw from the tournament's initial phase.

Team Statement and Ashwin’s Heartfelt Post

 

 

 

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A post shared by Ashwin (@rashwin99)

Sydney Thunder officially announced the news, expressing their disappointment and extending wishes for Ashwin’s swift recovery. General Manager Trent Copeland acknowledged Ashwin’s commitment to the team and the fans, emphasizing their support through his rehabilitation.

Ashwin wrote, “I’m gutted to miss BBL|15. My focus now is recovery and coming back stronger. I’m grateful to the Thunder family and the fans”. He even hoped to join the team, saying, "If rehab and travel plans allow, I’d love to be around the group later in the season and meet the fans. Wishing both Thunder teams a big year.” They are looking at ways Ashwin can still engage with the team later in the season in a non-playing capacity, depending on his rehab and travel.

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Finding Relief: What You Can Do

Managing knee pain effectively involves choosing treatments tailored to the cause of your discomfort and your lifestyle. In one of our previous article, Dr Venkatesh Movva, Specialist in Regenerative Medicine, RegenOrthoSport, Hyderabad, gave some recommended strategies.

• Rest and Physical Therapy: Giving your knees adequate rest is crucial. Physical therapy helps by teaching exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, reducing stress on the joint.
• Choosing Proper Footwear: Shoes with good cushioning and support can lower the impact on your knees. Avoid high heels or flat, unsupportive shoes which may worsen knee pain.
• Knee Braces and Supports: Wearing braces or knee sleeves can stabilize the joint during movements that otherwise cause discomfort, especially when doing activities that put strain on your knees.
• Exploring Regenerative Treatments: Innovative therapies such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections or bone marrow concentrate harness the body's own healing powers to reduce inflammation and boost tissue repair in the knee.
• Non-Surgical and Surgical Options: If pain persists or worsens, minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopy or, in advanced cases, knee replacement surgery might be necessary. 

By combining these approaches thoughtfully, you can find significant relief and regain knee function while minimising downtime and avoiding more invasive procedures when possible.

What Does Science Say About Such Injury?

A study looked at how regenerative medicine, combined with exercise, helps people with knee problems like osteoarthritis. Treatments like PRP or stem cells, along with special exercises, helped reduce knee pain and improve movement in patients. These effects lasted from a few weeks to almost two years. This shows that using the body’s own healing powers together with physical therapy can really help knees feel better and work well again.

ALSO READ: Yoga vs Zumba: Which Exercise Helps Burn More Calories?

Conclusion

Ravichandran Ashwin’s BBL journey has faced an unexpected challenge with his knee injury. However, his professionalism and positive outlook promise a dedicated recovery ahead. His fans and team stand by him, hopeful for his strong return to cricket. The focus now is on healing, with the possibility of Ashwin inspiring both on and off the field once again.