Bangladesh substitute Tamim for injured Mustafizur

AFP: Bangladesh on Monday called up opening batsman Tamim Iqbal for the remaining part of the Asia Cup as a replacement for pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was ruled out with injury.

Mustafizur Rahman  

Team physio Bayjedul Islam said Mustafizur complained of discomfort after Sunday’s match against Sri Lanka and an MRI scan and a report from the radiologist confirmed a strain on a right rib.  

“He is under conservative treatment and rest for next 48 hours.

Tamim Iqbal

​ Following that the rehab will begin,” Islam said in statement. “We are expecting that he will make a quick recovery and resume bowling soon.” 

Mustafizur played a key role in Bangladesh’s 23-run win over Sri Lanka with four tight overs for  just 19 runs. He also took the vital wicket of all-rounder Thisara Perera.

Tamim, who is a regular member of the side, was allowed to skip the Asia Cup to be with his wife, who gave birth to a baby boy in Bangkok on Sunday. 

Tamim returned home on Monday and joined the training camp. 

Bangladesh will face Pakistan in their last league match of the tournament on Wednesday. 

The hosts, who have four points from three matches, will qualify for the 6 March  final if they can beat Pakistan in the last match.