6 stitches in Shoriful Islam's hand

Bangladesh has suffered a significant setback just before the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup. Star pacer Shariful Islam sustained an injury during the preparation match against India on Saturday in New York, requiring six stitches on his left hand.

The injury is expected to take at least a week to heal, making Shariful doubtful for Bangladesh's first game against Sri Lanka, scheduled for June 7 in Dallas.

Shariful was the most successful bowler for Bangladesh in the match against India, despite not being able to complete his quota of overs. He took 1 wicket for 26 runs in 3.5 overs. The injury occurred when he attempted to field a yorker bowled to Hardik Pandya, resulting in a cut on the palm of his left hand. Consequently, he could not finish his allotted four overs.

Shariful was immediately taken off the field as his palm appeared swollen. It was later confirmed that he needed six stitches between the palm and the index finger.

If Shariful is unable to recover in time for the tournament, it will be a huge blow for the Bangladesh team. He is a key bowler alongside Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, and Tanzim Sakib, forming a critical part of Bangladesh's bowling attack.