Synopsis
Bangladesh is hopeful that senior batter Mahmudullah will be available for their crucial Champions Trophy match against New Zealand in Rawalpindi on February 24. A win is essential for Bangladesh to keep their semifinal aspirations alive.Key Takeaways
- Mahmudullah's potential return is crucial.
- Bangladesh needs a win to stay in the tournament.
- New Zealand is confident after recent victories.
- Hridoy is fit and ready for the match.
- Team management is monitoring Mahmudullah's recovery closely.
New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) Bangladesh holds a positive outlook regarding the presence of senior batter Mahmudullah for their pivotal Champions Trophy showdown against New Zealand in Rawalpindi on February 24. A victory is essential for Bangladesh to maintain their hopes of reaching the semifinals.
Mahmudullah, who has been in excellent form with four fifties in his recent four ODIs, suffered a calf muscle injury during training prior to the match against India. His absence was significantly felt as Bangladesh found themselves in a precarious position at 35/5 early on, but Towhid Hridoy’s century and Jaker Ali’s fifty sparked a fightback. Despite their efforts, India successfully chased down the target in the 48th over, winning by six wickets.
Although Bangladesh managed to extend the match with their bowling on a slow pitch, their inadequate total proved detrimental. Given the short format of the Champions Trophy, they now find themselves needing to secure a win.
"We are optimistic about his (Mahmudullah) participation (for the remainder of the tournament). His recovery is progressing well, but a final call will be made only after the last practice session before our game against New Zealand in Rawalpindi," Cricbuzz reported Bangladesh team manager Rabeed Imam as stating.
"A scan was conducted following his injury, and there was no tear detected. This is encouraging, and whenever he feels ready, he should be able to play, as there is no tear," he added.
On the other hand, New Zealand enters the match with high spirits following a decisive 60-run victory over Pakistan in Karachi on February 19. They also come off a triumphant tri-series in Pakistan, remaining unbeaten with two wins over the hosts.
In light of the significant challenge ahead, Bangladesh will greatly benefit from Mahmudullah’s experience and steadiness in this high-pressure encounter against the Black Caps.
The Bangladesh team manager confirmed that Towhid Hridoy, who experienced cramps while achieving his maiden ODI century, is fit and has no injury issues.
Bangladesh has arrived in Pakistan and will conduct their first practice session on Saturday, during which Mahmudullah’s recovery will be closely observed by the team management.
If Mahmudullah is cleared for selection, the team might face a challenging decision regarding whom to exclude. Initially, either Jaker Ali or Hridoy was expected to be sidelined for the veteran, but with both players having strong performances in the opening match, selectors might have to contemplate dropping someone from the top three or even Mushfiqur Rahim.
