Bangladesh have suffered a major setback ahead of their upcoming Test tour of South Africa, with opener Shadman Islam ruled out after sustaining an ankle injury during the ongoing second Test against West Indies in Sylhet. The injury, which could involve both a tear and a fracture, has ruled the left-hander out of the two-match series, forcing the team management to look for an alternative at the top of the order.
Shadman twisted his ankle on the second day of the Sylhet Test. A member of Bangladesh’s selection panel confirmed his unavailability to Cricbuzz, revealing that the initial assessment indicated a tear, with the possibility of a fracture yet to be ruled out.
Mahfizul Islam Robin in line for maiden Test call-up
With Shadman unavailable, in-form Mymensingh opener Mahfizul Islam Robin is expected to earn a place in Bangladesh’s squad for the South Africa tour.
Cricbuzz understands that Robin is all set to be included in the Test squad. The opener is already in Sylhet with the Bangladesh team and has been working closely with the national coaching staff in the nets, preparing for a potential opportunity at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh are understood to be preparing to continue the ongoing second Test against West Indies with one batter short following Shadman’s injury.
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Bangladesh’s demanding South Africa schedule
Bangladesh are scheduled to leave Dhaka on November 10 for their multi-format tour of South Africa, which will feature two Tests, three ODIs and three T20Is. The opening Test will be played at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg from November 15 to 19, while the second match is scheduled at SuperSport Park in Centurion from November 23 to 27.
