Nahid ruled out of Australia series, Litton and Shoriful could return for second Test

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has provided the latest injury and rehabilitation updates on five national team players ahead of the upcoming Test series against Australia. The biggest setback is the absence of fast bowler Nahid Rana, who has been ruled out of the entire series due to injury.

According to the BCB Medical Team, Nahid sustained a left side injury during a match on 17 July 2026. Subsequent scans confirmed a Grade 2 side strain. The injury is expected to require approximately four weeks for tissue healing, followed by another two to four weeks of progressive bowling workload. Overall, his recovery is expected to take between six and eight weeks.

Meanwhile, left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam is making good progress in his rehabilitation. He suffered a Grade 1 left hamstring injury on 14 July and is scheduled to resume bowling on 29 July, with a fitness assessment planned around 12 August. Although he is unlikely to feature in the opening Test against Australia, he is expected to be in contention for the second Test, subject to medical clearance.

Wicketkeeper-batter Litton Kumer Das is also recovering well from a left calf injury. After consulting a specialist in Singapore, he underwent platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment. He is set to begin a progressive running and conditioning programme on 28 July, with a fitness assessment scheduled around 13 August. If he completes his rehabilitation successfully and receives fitness clearance, Litton is expected to be available for selection from the second Test.

Fast bowler Tanzim Hasan Sakib, meanwhile, remains in long-term rehabilitation following his injury. A recent follow-up scan and consultation with an overseas specialist confirmed that he will continue his rehabilitation programme for another eight to ten weeks before undergoing another scan. His return-to-play timeline will depend on the progress of fracture healing, with the BCB currently expecting him to be available towards the end of the year.

Left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman is also recovering from a right hamstring and calf injury. He continues to undergo daily rehabilitation and is expected to have a fitness assessment at the end of July. If he progresses through his bowling workload as planned, Mustafizur is expected to be fully available for selection after 18 August 2026.