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Bangladesh are facing a significant setback as star batter Mushfiqur Rahim has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against the West Indies. This early blow comes just as the team aims to bounce back from a disappointing performance against South Africa. The absence of Rahim, a veteran player and key figure in the squad, raises concerns about Bangladesh’s chances in the two-match series scheduled to start on November 22.
Mushfiqur Rahim’s injury: A major blow for Bangladesh
Mushfiqur sustained a fracture to the tip of his left index finger while keeping during the first ODI against Afghanistan. This injury during the match, jeopardized his participation in the ODIs against the West Indies too. According to the team doctor, recovery from this type of injury typically takes four to six weeks, effectively ruling him out of the Test matches and casting doubt on his availability for the ODIs as well.
Najmul Hossain Shanto at the helm needs to forget loss demons behind
Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead a squad that is eager to shake off the memories of their recent 2-0 series defeat to South Africa, where they were outclassed by an innings and 273 runs in the second Test. The players are determined to reclaim their form and secure a win against West Indies, who are currently positioned at the bottom of the ICC World Test Championship rankings.
Also READ: Najmul Hossain Shanto propels Bangladesh to a series levelling win over Afghanistan
Bangladesh squad stability amidst changes
Despite Rahim’s injury, Bangladesh’s Test squad remains largely unchanged from their previous outings. The team will rely on its existing players, including Litton Das, who will take over wicketkeeping duties, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who has been appointed vice-captain. The squad aims to build on their strengths and capitalize on any weaknesses displayed by their opponents during past encounters.
The first Test match will take place at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on November 22, followed by a second match starting on November 30 in Jamaica. As Bangladesh prepares for this crucial series, all eyes will be on how they adapt to Rahim’s absence and whether they can harness their collective talent to secure much-needed victories.
Bangladesh squad for the Test series against West Indies
Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vc), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque Showrab, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Jaker Ali Anik, Taijul Islam, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana, Hasan Murad
