Bangladesh faces a major setback ahead of the decisive third ODI against Afghanistan, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto ruled out due to a groin injury. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed on November 11 that Shanto will not feature in the final match of the series, with chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu officially announcing his unavailability.
Shanto sustained the injury while fielding during the second ODI on Saturday. After leaving the field, scans revealed that the injury would prevent him from playing in the series decider. This loss is a significant blow for Bangladesh, as Shanto had played a key role in their 68-run victory in the second ODI, scoring a crucial 76 runs.
The team was already dealing with injury issues, with veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim ruled out earlier in the series due to a finger injury. With Shanto’s absence, Bangladesh faces additional challenges in their quest to win the series, which stands tied at 1-1.
In Shanto’s absence, all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz is set to lead as captain for the final ODI. Additionally, wicketkeeper-batter Zakir Hasan is likely to replace Shanto in the playing XI. Zakir, who has been on standby, will be eager to make an impact in this high-pressure match.
With both teams level at 1-1, the third ODI becomes a crucial encounter, and Afghanistan will be looking to take advantage of Bangladesh’s injury woes to secure a series win.
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