Bangladesh faces a setback ahead of their second Test against South Africa, as wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali has been ruled out due to a concussion. Mahidul Islam Ankon has been named as his replacement.
Jaker suffered the concussion during a training session at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium on Sunday. He had recently impressed on his Test debut, scoring a half-century in the second innings of the first Test.
“Jaker Ali suffered a concussion while batting in practice yesterday,” stated Bangladesh’s physio, Bayjedul Islam Khan. “He has a history of concussions and continues to show symptoms. Given his previous incidents, recovery may take some time, leading to his exclusion from the second Test.”
In a bright spot for the team, Mahidul Islam Ankon receives his first national call-up after a strong performance in domestic cricket. He has been a standout for Dhaka Division in the National Cricket League, where he has scored three centuries, including a notable 118 against Sylhet Division last week.
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Additionally, pace bowler Khaled Ahmed has been called up to replace Taskin Ahmed, who is also unavailable due to injury.
As Bangladesh gears up for this important match, they will look to overcome the challenges posed by a determined South African side, who are aiming for a 2-0 series win to bolster their chances for a spot in the World Test Championship final.