Mahmudullah's Return Gives Bangladesh Hope Ahead of Crucial Match Against New Zealand in Rawalpindi

Ahead of today's must-win match against New Zealand in Rawalpindi, the Bangladesh team is hopeful about the return of experienced batter Mahmudullah Riyad. To keep their hopes of advancing to the Champions Trophy semifinals alive, Bangladesh must win this match. Whether Mahmudullah Riyad will play remains uncertain, and the team management will have to wait until the last moment for a decision. While the match will not be easy for Bangladesh, Riyad’s return could boost the team's confidence.

The biggest question remains whether Mahmudullah Riyad will make it into the playing XI. If he is fully fit, Riyad will most likely be included in the squad. His absence was felt in the match against India, especially considering his consistent form, with three consecutive fifties in the last series against the West Indies. However, there is also a dilemma regarding his position in the lineup—who will make way for him?

If Mahmudullah Riyad returns to the XI, someone from the opening pair that played against India will likely be dropped. In this case, Mehedi Hasan Miraz could be sent to open the batting. Based on recent performances, Soumya Sarkar might be the one to be dropped. His batting and fielding form in the previous match have given some indications of this possibility.

Mahmudullah Riyad made his return to training on the first day at the Islamabad Club. After a three-day break, Riyad returned to practice, sweating it out in the nets for two consecutive days. Once Riyad passes the fitness test, he is expected to secure a spot in the best XI.

There is also a possibility of a change in the pace department. Mustafizur Rahman is not in the best of form, but Bangladesh will look to utilize his experience in the New Zealand match. Alongside Mustafiz and Taskin Ahmed, Naheed Rana could come into the playing XI, which may result in Tanzim Sakib losing his place. The key question now is whether Bangladesh will capitalize on Naheed Rana's "X-factor."