Veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim will be absent from Bangladesh's crucial Super Four clash against India, scheduled for Friday, September 15 in Colombo. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has granted Mushfiqur an extended leave to prioritize his family during this crucial time.
In a statement, Jalal Yunus, Chairman of Cricket Operations at BCB, empathized with the 36-year-old's situation, revealing that Mushfiqur's wife is in the process of recovery after giving birth to their second child recently.
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“Mushfiqur has informed us that his wife is still recovering (after giving birth), and he needs to be by her side and with their children at this time. We fully understand his situation and have decided to permit him to skip the game,” Yunus stated in a BCB release.
Mushfiqur Rahim's absence a challenge for Bangladesh
Mushfiqur Rahim's absence poses a significant challenge for Bangladesh, as they had heavily relied on his batting prowess throughout the tournament. With 131 runs from four innings at an average of 32.75, including an impressive 64 against Pakistan, Mushfiqur emerged as one of their top run-scorers, playing a pivotal role in their campaign.
🚨 JUST IN: Mushfiqur Rahim won't be available for Bangladesh's last game against India. He wants to stay with his newborn child and his wife who is yet to recover fully. BCB granted his leave.#AsiaCup2023 #BANvIND pic.twitter.com/3pylPf3ndu
— Saif Ahmed 🇧🇩 (@saifahmed75) September 13, 2023
Bangladesh's journey in the Asia Cup 2023 has been a rollercoaster ride, with their only standout performance being a dominant victory against Afghanistan during the group stage. However, losses to Sri Lanka and Pakistan have marred their path, and their chances of advancing to the final are slim.
The winners of the upcoming Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka match on Thursday will join India in the final, set to take place on Sunday, September 17. In case of a game abandonment, Sri Lanka will secure their spot in the final due to their superior net run-rate.
