In a significant blow, Bangladesh will be without captain Najmul Hossain Shanto for the decisive third ODI against Afghanistan due to a groin injury. The three-match series, tied at 1-1, saw Bangladesh level the score with a 68-run victory in the second game in Sharjah.
As per a report by Cricbuzz, BCB chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain confirmed and said, “ Due to a groin injury Najmul is not playing the last game against Afghanistan.” He further added, “ is unlikely to be available for the opening Test against West Indies and now we have to see whether he should come back for rehabilitation or go with the team to West Indies. The decision will be taken by our medical team”
Shanto is now doubtful for the first Test against the West Indies, as his recovery is expected to take at least two weeks. He sustained the injury while fielding in the second ODI, which forced him off the field, with Mehidy Hasan assuming captaincy in his absence.
The 26-year-old was Bangladesh’s top scorer in the second ODI, amassing 76 runs to help post a total of 252/7 in 50 overs, which the team defended successfully to level the series.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz will lead the team in the final ODI on Monday. Earlier, Mushfiqur Rahim was ruled out of the last two ODIs and the upcoming West Indies Tests due to a finger injury sustained in the series opener.
