In a bid to test Mustafizur Rahman's fitness to keep him match fit for the upcoming West Indies series, the Bangladesh selectors are asking him to feature in a four - day game against Sri Lanka A. He is in contention for the series against the Windies which is why the selectors are focussing particularly on the fitness of their premier bowler.
Mustafizur missed the Test tour of West Indies as he continues his recovery from the toe injury. The pacer also had to miss the recent three-match T20I series against Afghanistan which Bangladesh lost 0-3. However, it's likely that he might be fit in time for the second Test if the rehabilitation program goes to plan but before taking any decision, the selectors want him to feature in the ongoing series against Sri Lanka A, who will play three four-day matches against their Bangladesh counterparts.
"We want to have him a look against Sri Lanka A team in the four-day matches,'' national selector Habibul Bashar said. ''It will help us to know about his condition while he can also have a clear understanding about where he stands as far as match fitness is concerned,'' said Habibul adding that his workload will be managed so that he is not overstrained.
The left arm pacer is confident of making a comeback with full match fitness and is eager to perform against the Windies. Injuries have been a part of Mustafizur ever since he started playing for Bangladesh and has also played a part in halting his progress at the international level.
''Naturally there is some pain as it [injured area] was covered for a long period of time,'' Mustafizur noted. ''But overall the recovery looks to be quite satisfying but as I am yet to bowl in full run-up can't say much about it. First let me start bowling in full run-up and only after that can I have a clear understanding of my situation,'' he added.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh will start their West Indies tour with a two-day warm-up match, starting tomorrow, before taking on the hosts in the first of a two-match Test series from July 4 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. The second and final Test match, which begins on July 12, will be played at the Sabina Park in Jamaica and will be followed by three ODIs and three T20Is.
The two teams are currently playing the first four-day game at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chittagong. The next two matches will be held at the Academy ground at Cox's Bazar from July 3-6 and in Sylhet from July 10-13.
(Inputs from Cricbuzz)
