Nahid Rana begins road back to Bangladesh attack after six weeks

Bangladesh fast bowler Nahid Rana has taken another step towards his return to international cricket, resuming bowling in the nets after spending around six weeks on the sidelines with a side strain.

Rana returned to bowling at the BCB Academy in Mirpur on Monday, working with a shortened run-up under the supervision of pace-bowling coach Talha Jubair and team physiotherapist Bayezidul Islam.

The 23-year-old missed Bangladesh's recent two-Test series in Australia after suffering a Grade Two side strain during the tour of Zimbabwe. The injury was initially expected to require six to eight weeks of rehabilitation.

His return to bowling is an encouraging sign, but the Bangladesh Cricket Board is taking a cautious approach. Rana will not be considered for the Asian Games, with the selectors unwilling to rush him back into competitive cricket while he continues his rehabilitation.

The focus has instead shifted towards the Afghanistan series in October, which has emerged as the earliest realistic target for his competitive comeback. Whether he returns in the Test or limited-overs leg will depend on his recovery and workload management.

Rana's absence was felt during the Australia Tests, particularly as Bangladesh's pace attack made a strong impression despite missing one of its fastest bowlers. His ability to generate high pace has made him an important part of Bangladesh's plans across formats.

For now, the priority is not speed but progression.

The shortened run-up and controlled workload represent the first stage of rebuilding his bowling rhythm. Further training and medical assessments will determine when he is ready to return to full-intensity cricket.

Bangladesh will be keen to have Rana back without compromising his long-term fitness.

The comeback has begun. For Nahid Rana, October is now the target-but recovery will decide the timetable.