Bangladesh’s veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies, scheduled to begin on November 22. Rahim is currently recovering from a fracture to his left index finger, which he sustained while keeping wickets during the first ODI against Afghanistan in Sharjah.
A member of Bangladesh’s selection panel confirmed that Rahim is expected to miss the Test series, with his recovery estimated to take at least four to six weeks. However, he may be available for the ODI leg of the series, which follows the Test matches.
“He is not playing the Test series against West Indies, as it will take at least a month or more to recover,” the selector said. “As for the ODIs, we will assess his progress and make a call closer to the time.”
Rahim, 37, had batted at number seven in the first ODI against Afghanistan after suffering the injury, before being ruled out of the ongoing series. The injury also led to his return to Bangladesh, with team management confirming he would head home soon for further rehabilitation.
In the meantime, no replacement has been announced for Rahim in Bangladesh’s ongoing ODI series against Afghanistan. There had been speculation that Litton Das could fill in for Rahim, but selectors have dismissed this theory. “Liton is traveling to Dubai for personal reasons and will join the squad for the West Indies tour,” the selector clarified.
Following the two Tests, Bangladesh will play three ODIs and as many T20Is against the West Indies, with Rahim expected to join the squad for the ODIs, subject to his recovery progress. Rahim, who retired from T20I cricket earlier this year, will likely play a key role in the ODI series if fully fit.
