Mustafizur Rahman (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: Bangladesh have made some key decisions regarding their pace bowlers after the ODI series against New Zealand, with a clear focus on fitness and upcoming international commitments.Mustafizur Rahman, one of the team’s most experienced pacers, is currently struggling with an injury. After being examined by the team’s medical staff, he was advised to undergo an immediate evaluation.
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Ravindra Jadeja picks a crucial turning point in Rajasthan Royals’ winHe will then begin a rehabilitation program under the supervision of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s medical team. Due to this situation, the board also withdrew the No Objection Certificate (NOC) which had earlier allowed him to participate in PSL 2026.This means Mustafizur will not play in the rest of the league as management want him fully fit for national duty rather than risking further injury.
Focus on long-term fitness
BCB has taken a similar approach with young fast bowler Nahid Rana and decided not to release him even for PSL 2026. The aim is to give him enough time to prepare properly for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan.These decisions underline the board’s priority to carefully manage players’ workloads and ensure that key bowlers are in the best condition for international cricket.
Fresh faces get a chance
Meanwhile, Bangladesh have also announced their squad for the first two T20Is against New Zealand starting on April 27 in Chattogram. With seniors like Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana rested, the selectors decided to test new talent.All-rounder Abdul Gaffar Saqlain has been called up to the T20I side for the first time and offers both batting depth and pace. Pacer Ripon Mondal has also been included after impressing with his consistency, especially in the death overs. Led by Litton Das, the squad consists of a mix of experienced names and up-and-comers as Bangladesh look to build strength on the bench.
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