T20 ODI Test: West Indies Gain Massive Advantage as Key Bowler Set to Miss Tests Following…

Bangladesh’s star fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman is unlikely to participate in the upcoming ODI and T20I series against the West Indies. The pacer has reportedly requested leave from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to be with his family, as he is set to become a father in December.

The white-ball series between Bangladesh and the West Indies is scheduled to begin with the first ODI on December 8 at Warner Park in Basseterre, St Kitts, and conclude with the third T20I on December 19 at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent.

A BCB official confirmed the request, stating, “It’s true that he [Mustafizur] asked for leave during the white-ball series against the West Indies, but we are yet to make a decision, as there is still time. Let him return, and we can discuss his availability. We may assess if he can participate in one of the formats, either ODIs or T20Is.”

The official emphasized that family matters are of the utmost importance, saying, “At the same time, we have to consider that this is a family issue and it is a top priority for everyone.”

Mustafizur, a crucial member of Bangladesh’s limited-overs squad, last played Test cricket in June 2022. He is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where Bangladesh is competing against Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series. The pacer is expected to return to Dhaka on Wednesday, November 13.

Bangladesh’s tour of the West Indies will begin with the first Test on November 22 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua. Ahead of the Tests, the team will also play a warm-up match from November 15 at Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua.

Most of Bangladesh’s players are expected to travel from Dubai to the Caribbean, while squad members Mominul Haque Showrabh and Taijul Islam are set to join the team in Dubai before their journey to the West Indies.