Bangladesh is gearing up for a challenging two-match Test series against Pakistan, with the first match scheduled to commence on August 21 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The second Test will take place at the National Stadium in Karachi starting August 30. However, the team has suffered a significant blow with the news that star opener Mahmudul Hasan will be sidelined due to a groin injury.
Mahmudul Hasan’s Injury
The 23-year-old right-handed batter has been ruled out of the series after sustaining a right groin injury while fielding for Bangladesh A during a recent match against Pakistan A in Islamabad. According to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Mahmudul will be resting for three weeks. BCB chief physician Debashish Chowdhury confirmed the injury, stating, “We have received a mail regarding Mahmudul where it is stated that he sustained injury to his right groin, and as a result, he is being rested for three weeks.”
This absence is particularly unfortunate for the Najmul Hossain Shanto-led side, as Mahmudul was in excellent form, having scored 65 runs in the first innings against Pakistan A. His recent performances included scores of 69 and 65 in a four-day match against Pakistan A in Darwin last month.
Rahim’s Optimism Amidst Injury Concerns
In a more positive development, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim, who also suffered an injury during the Bangladesh A match against Pakistan A, is hopeful of making a quick recovery. Rahim injured his finger, which prevented him from batting in the second innings. He expressed optimism about his fitness, stating, “Hopefully I will recover very soon, and inshallah, I will play in the first Test.”
Following the Test series against Pakistan, Bangladesh will travel to India for another two-match Test series, starting on September 19 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. In addition to the Tests, the teams will also compete in three T20 matches.
As Bangladesh prepares for their upcoming Test series against Pakistan, the absence of Mahmudul Hasan due to injury is a significant setback. However, with players like Mushfiqur Rahim showing signs of recovery, the team remains focused on performing well in what promises to be a challenging series.
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