Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been dealt with a major blow after being ruled out of the final ODI against Ireland on Sunday due to a finger injury that could sideline him for up to six weeks. This means that Shakib's participation in the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan next month is in jeopardy.
The injury occurred when Shakib dropped a catch off Mehidy Hasan Miraz during the second ODI against Ireland on Friday. Despite the injury, he managed to bat in Bangladesh's chase, scoring 26 runs with five boundaries. However, his participation in the third ODI and the Afghanistan Test was immediately put in doubt when he was diagnosed with a fractured finger.
Team physio Bayjedul Islam Khan confirmed the injury and the expected recovery time, saying that "such injuries usually take around six weeks to heal. Unfortunately, this means he is not available for the last match against Ireland."
The absence of Shakib, who is one of the most experienced players in the Bangladesh side, will be a major setback for the team as they aim to clinch the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League series against Ireland. Bangladesh currently leads the series 1-0 and can finish as high as second on the standings with a comprehensive victory in the final match.
However, the bigger concern will be Shakib's availability for the Afghanistan Test, which is set to take place next month. Bangladesh will be hoping that the all-rounder can make a speedy recovery and regain full fitness before the crucial match.