Mahmudul Hasan ruled out of Pakistan Tests in a major setback for Bangladesh

In a major blow to Bangladesh ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, Mahmudul Hasan has been ruled out of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 games due to a groin injury.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed the news on Saturday, August 17. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is yet to name a replacement for the star opener Mahmudul Hasan for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, starting on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.

Mahmudul Hasan out of the Pakistan Test series with an injury

Mahmudul Hasan sustained a right groin strain, which has forced the Bangladesh opener to be sidelined for at least three weeks, impacting the team significantly ahead of the crucial Test series in Pakistan.

Mahmudul Hasan, who recently showcased impressive form for Bangladesh A against Pakistan Shaheens in Islamabad during the tour games, sustained the injury while fielding in the four-day match against the Shaheens, which also prevented him from batting in the second innings of the match.

He had shown promising form, scoring 65 runs in the first inning of the four-day match and contributing significantly with scores of 69 and 65 in previous tour matches against the Pakistan Shaheens. Mahmudul Hasan's absence is a big blow to Bangladesh in the upcoming Test series against Pakistan.

Mahmudul Hasan is being rested for three weeks: Debashish Chowdhury

BCB chief physician Debashish Chowdhury was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz on Saturday (August 17): “We have received a mail regarding Mahmudul where it is stated that he sustained injury to his right groin and as a result he is being rested for three weeks.”

The opening test of the upcoming two-match Test series is set to start on August 21 in Rawalpindi, with the second and final test scheduled to take place at the National Cricket Stadium in Karachi from August 30.

Bangladesh cricket team had arrived in Pakistan early to acclimate to local conditions and prepare thoroughly, despite the ongoing political unrest in the country. They completed a three-day practice session in Lahore before traveling to Islamabad.

Bangladesh players face internet issues in Pakistan

Meanwhile, it is being said that Bangladesh players are facing issues with their hotel accommodations, particularly regarding slow internet connectivity in Pakistan. The Bangladesh players are struggling to be in touch with their families back home due to the slow internet connectivity, and they have complained to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the same.

🚨 Bangladesh Cricket Team has complained to their team management regarding slow internet in Pakistan which is causing them inconvenience while talking to families back home. #PAKvBAN

— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) August 16, 2024

The Bangladesh team management has been informed about the same to the BCB and PCB, as this issue could affect the players' off-field comfort in the upcoming Test series.

Earlier, Pakistan legend and Bangladesh’s current spin bowling coach, Mushtaq Ahmed, thanked the PCB for efficiently managing the logistics surrounding Bangladesh's rescheduled arrival in Pakistan for their upcoming two-match Test series.