Leach returned to the Test arena for the series opener after his absence during the Ashes, but an injury sustained in the field resulted in significant swelling, forcing him to miss the second Test. He will now undergo surgery on Tuesday to address the persistent swelling.
“This operation is necessary to alleviate the swelling that hasn’t subsided,” explained Leach, highlighting the urgency of the procedure.
This setback adds to a string of challenges for Leach, who has battled Crohn’s disease and previously sat out the home series against Australia due to a back stress fracture. His health scare with sepsis during the 2019 New Zealand tour remains vivid in memory.
Despite the knee injury, Leach showcased resilience by delivering 36 overs in England’s remarkable victory over India in the first Test, often bowling in short bursts.
Reflecting on the unfortunate incident, Leach shared with BBC Radio 5 Live, “It happened early in the first innings while fielding, and throughout the entire match, I was grappling with this knee issue. The knocks sustained during the game have extended my recovery period.”
Looking ahead, Leach expressed his eagerness to undergo the operation and return to cricket. “I’m hopeful that post-surgery, I can resume playing and find my rhythm again,” he remarked optimistically.
England’s cricket calendar sees their first Test of the summer against West Indies at Lord’s on 10 July, while Leach’s Somerset embarks on their County Championship journey against Kent on 5 April.