Shoriful's absence from opening campaign 'big loss' for Bangladesh

Bangladesh has encountered a significant setback before their World Cup campaign, with pacer Shariful Islam ruled out of the first match due to a hand injury sustained during a practice match against India. Shariful, who received six stitches on his left hand, will also likely miss the second match. He is currently resting at the team hotel. The absence of such a crucial player at the start of the tournament is troubling for Bangladesh. According to Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful's injury is a major loss for the Tiger's pace attack.

Just before the main phase of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, Bangladesh suffered this blow. Shariful was injured last Saturday during a practice match against India in New York, resulting in six stitches on his left hand. Taskin provided an update on Shariful’s condition:

"It's unfortunate about Shoriful. There was only one ball left when he injured his hand. It's hard to say anything definite now. It happened just three days ago, so we hope he will recover soon. We still can't say for sure. Since he had stitches on his hand, the doctors will be able to give a better update."

"Every match is an opportunity, especially in the World Cup, where every match is thrilling. If Shoriful can't play, it will be a big loss for our bowling attack. However, the rest of the team is ready. We are all in good form. If I can't play either, the others are prepared. We hope that whoever plays will give their best, and that will be enough."

In the practice match against India, Shariful Islam was Bangladesh’s most successful bowler despite not completing his full quota of overs. He took one wicket for 26 runs in 3.5 overs. The injury occurred in the 19.5th over of India’s innings when Hardik Pandya managed a yorker from Shoriful, and while attempting to field the ball, Shoriful injured his left palm.