Nahid faces race against time for West Indies Tests

Bangladesh fast bowler Nahid Rana faces an uncertain race to regain fitness ahead of the upcoming home Test series against West Indies, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) assessing a fresh injury concern during his recovery.

Rana, who has been sidelined by a side strain, recently reported back pain while increasing his bowling workload in preparation for a return to competitive cricket. He has been advised to stop bowling temporarily as the medical team reviews his scan results.

The latest setback has ruled him out of the upcoming ODI tri-series, which had been identified as a possible route back to match fitness. His availability for the two-Test series against West Indies, scheduled to begin on October 28, remains uncertain.

The BCB is considering seeking specialist medical advice from abroad if required. The findings of the ongoing assessment are expected to help determine the next steps in his treatment and rehabilitation.

Chief selector Habibul Bashar said Rana had not been ruled out of the West Indies series, but the selectors could not yet provide a definite timeline for his return.

"He is not completely ruled out of the Windies series. We are going step by step," Bashar told reporters, adding that the original plan had been for Rana to play in the tri-series.

Bangladesh will have to balance the value of Rana's pace and wicket-taking ability against the risk of bringing him back before he is ready. His fitness will be particularly important as the team prepares for a demanding Test schedule.

Until the medical assessment provides greater clarity, the selectors must keep open the possibility of starting the West Indies series without him. Rana's participation in either Test will depend on his recovery in the coming weeks.