In a major setback for Bangladesh, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has been ruled out of the crucial third ODI against Afghanistan due to a groin injury. The news was confirmed by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu on Monday, November 11.
Shanto won’t play in the third ODI due to injury,
Lipu shared with The Daily Star, marking a blow to Bangladesh’s hopes as they head into this high-stakes series decider.
Impact of Shanto’s Absence
Shanto’s injury occurred while fielding in the second ODI on Saturday. The 26-year-old, who played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s 68-run victory with a resilient 76-run knock, had to leave the field after his injury, and subsequent scans confirmed he would be unable to recover in time for the final match. His absence will be felt deeply, as he has been instrumental in anchoring Bangladesh’s batting order.
Bangladesh’s injury concerns began earlier in the series, with experienced wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim ruled out after sustaining a finger injury in the first ODI. Now, with Najmul Hossain Shanto also sidelined, Bangladesh’s depth and adaptability will be tested.
Mushfiqur Rahim to Miss West Indies Test Series Due to Injury
Mehidy Hasan Miraz Likely to Take on Captaincy
With Shanto unavailable, all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz is expected to lead the team. Additionally, wicketkeeper-batter Zakir Hasan, who has been on standby, is likely to step into the playing XI. Zakir will be eager to make a mark in what promises to be a pressure-filled match as the teams battle for series supremacy.
A Decider Under Pressure
With the series tied 1-1, Afghanistan will look to capitalize on Bangladesh’s injury setbacks and secure a series victory. For Bangladesh, the challenge lies in overcoming these obstacles and rallying under new leadership to claim a final ODI win on their home turf.
