ISLAMABAD: With their hopes of progressing in the tournament hanging by a thread, Bangladesh are optimistic about senior batter Mahmudullah’s availability for their crucial match against New Zealand on February 24.
To keep their semifinal chances alive, Bangladesh must win this game, which is scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi.
Mahmudullah, who has scored four fifties in his last four ODIs, suffered a calf muscle injury while training before the India match, affecting Bangladesh’s squad composition, according to Cricbuzz.
His absence was felt as the team quickly slipped to 35/5 in the first hour of the game, before Towhid Hridoy’s century and Jaker Ali’s fifty rescued them with a record-breaking partnership.
India’s six wickets win
However, it was not enough as India won by six wickets in the 48th over. Despite a subpar total, Bangladesh fought well with the ball on a slow pitch. With the Champions Trophy’s short format, Bangladesh now find themselves in a must-win situation.
Meanwhile, New Zealand, riding high on confidence after defeating Pakistan by 60 runs in the tournament opener and winning all their matches in the tri-series in Pakistan, present a tough challenge for Bangladesh.
“We are hopeful regarding Mahmudullah’s availability for the rest of the tournament. He is recovering well, but a final decision will be made after the last practice session before our match against New Zealand,” confirmed team manager Rabeed Imam to Cricbuzz on Saturday.
Signs of recovery
“We had a scan after the injury, and there was no tear, which is a positive sign. He should be good to go whenever he feels comfortable,” he added.
The manager also confirmed that Towhid Hridoy, who cramped during his maiden ODI century, is fit and ready to play.
Bangladesh arrived in Pakistan and are set to have their first practice session on February 22, which will closely monitor Mahmudullah’s recovery.
If Mahmudullah is fit for selection, the team management may face a dilemma regarding who to leave out. While Jaker or Hridoy were expected to make way for him, both of them performed well in the opening game, meaning someone from the top three or Mushfiqur Rahim might have to sit out.
