Rawalpindi: Bangladesh’s fast bowler Shoriful Islam has been ruled out of the ongoing second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi due to a groin injury. Taskin Ahmed has been named as his replacement for this crucial match. The Test, which began a day late because of rain, saw Bangladesh opting to bowl first after winning the toss on the resumed day of play.
According to International Cricket Council, Shoriful Islam sustained a groin strain during the first Test match against Pakistan, which Bangladesh won. The injury was confirmed after medical assessments, including an MRI, revealed a Grade 1 left adductor strain. “Bangladesh pacer Shoriful Islam has a groin strain and could not be considered for selection in the second Test against Pakistan which got underway in Rawalpindi today,” stated the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
Taskin Ahmed, who last played in the longest format of the game in June 2023 against Afghanistan, makes a comeback to the Test side after a year. His return is timely as Bangladesh seeks to build on their recent victory where Shoriful played a key role by claiming three wickets, including those of key Pakistani batsmen Babar Azam and Shan Masood in the first innings.
Shoriful, who debuted in Test cricket in 2021 and has since taken 25 wickets in 11 matches, is now focusing on rehabilitation with the aim to return for the upcoming series against India in mid-September. Bangladesh’s physio, Bayjedul Islam Khan, mentioned that Shoriful’s recovery is expected to take around 10 days, and he has already commenced his rehabilitation process.
The second Test got off to a promising start for Bangladesh as they dismissed Pakistan opener Abdullah Shafique in the first over, setting a positive tone as they look to capitalize on their bowling decision.