BAN vs IND: Taskin Ahmed ruled out of 1st ODI
What's the story
Veteran Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed has been ruled out of the ODI series opener against India due to recurring back pain. It's indeed a massive blow for the home team as the speedster was expected to lead their bowling attack in the series. For now, Shoriful Islam has been called up as Taskin's back-up in the ODI squad. Here are further details.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Bangladesh are gearing up to host India in three ODIs and a couple of Test matches, starting December 4. The visitors have named a strong squad for the series as the likes of skipper Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli will form the top order. Owing to the same, Taskin's absence can hurt the Bangla Tigers in the opener.
Quote
What did the chief selector say?
"Taskin is ruled out from the opening game of the ODIs as his back pain recurred," BCB chief selector Minhajul Abedin told Cricbuzz on Thursday. "We will be seeing his progress before taking further decision regarding his participation," he added.
Stats
A look at Taskin's ODI numbers
Taskin, who made his ODI debut in June 2014, has so far scalped 67 wickets in 51 games. While his economy rate reads 5.54, the pacer has two five-wicket hauls in the format. One of his five-fors was recorded against India only in his debut match. Overall, the pacer has scalped 12 wickets in six ODIs against India at 17.16 (ER: 4.79).
Form
How has Taskin fared this year?
Taskin has so far scalped 30 wickets in 27 innings across formats this year. The tally also includes a five-wicket haul. With eight wickets in five games, the 27-year-old was Bangladesh's most successful bowler at the ICC T20 World Cup 2022.
Tamim Iqbal
Multiple injury concerns for Bangladesh
Meanwhile, Bangladesh are also sweating over the fitness of their skipper Tamim Iqbal. The veteran opener picked up a groin injury in the warm-up game at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on November 30. "We are waiting for Tamim's scan report. He had a groin injury and the physician asked him to have a scan to decide his availability," said Minhajul.