Saifuddin ruled out of Asian Games

Bangladesh have suffered an injury setback ahead of the Asian Games, with pace-bowling all-rounder Mohammad Saifuddin ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) said in a statement that Saifuddin could need around three weeks to return to full fitness.

National team physiotherapist Bayezidul Islam Khan said Saifuddin reported pain in his right hamstring while bowling during a training session on September 19. Following a physical examination and MRI scan, the injury was confirmed.

“He will require approximately three weeks of rehabilitation to make a full recovery,” Bayezidul said.

Saifuddin first felt pain in his hamstring while playing in Bangladesh A’s four-day match against South Africa A. He experienced further discomfort during training, prompting medical examinations that confirmed the injury.

As a result, he will miss the Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Meanwhile, another key Bangladesh player, Najmul Hossain Shanto, has also picked up a minor injury. The skin on the little toe of his left foot has been scraped off, although the team management does not consider the injury serious.

Bangladesh are scheduled to leave for Japan on September 25 for the Asian Games. Their quarter-final opponent will be determined at 11 AM on September 28.