Though a setback, medical experts remain cautiously optimistic about his return to elite competition.
Arshad travelled to the UK earlier this week, accompanied by his coach Salman Butt, to consult Dr Ali Sher Bajwa in Cambridge. The renowned orthopaedic specialist confirmed the surgery will be followed by a carefully managed rehabilitation phase.
“Please pray for Arshad’s recovery,” Dr Bajwa said. “We want the treatment to go well so he can return to international competition. The process will take time, but we are hopeful.”
Arshad first raised concerns about his calf muscle in a Geo News interview last week, saying pain had limited his training since earlier this year. The leg issue came just months after a knee complaint forced him out of the Asian Games in Hangzhou in October 2023.
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The 26-year-old javelin star has repeatedly overcome injuries. His elbow and knee surgeries in London back in December 2022 kickstarted a hard-fought comeback Since then, he claimed silver at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest—Pakistan’s first medal at the event—and secured historic Olympic gold with an Olympic record throw of 92.97 m in Paris 2024
While Dr Bajwa did not specify exact recovery dates, the emphasis is on a gradual and cautious rehabilitation process, ensuring Arshad doesn’t return to competition prematurely. His training camp in Lahore has paused meticulously in alignment with his UK medical team’s timelines
This hiatus affects Pakistan’s build-up to the upcoming World Athletics Championships later this year. But for fans and teammates, the priority remains Arshad’s long-term well-being.
After surgery, Arshad will remain under Dr Bajwa’s care in Cambridge until initial healing is complete. He’ll then transition back to Pakistan, training under coach Salman Butt. The goal: to restore his world-class power, precision, and champion mindset.
For now, the nation stands firmly behind its hero—not just hoping for a podium return, but for a healthy comeback that matches his immense talent.
