Nahid's absence a blow, but Musfik can step up, says coach

Australia vs Bangladesh
Photo: BCB
Photo: BCB
Online Desk
Online Desk
Bangladesh's preparations for the upcoming two-Test series against Australia have been disrupted by injuries, with fast bowlers Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam both set to miss the opening Test in Darwin.

While Nahid has already been ruled out of the series, Shoriful is also unavailable for the first Test as he continues his recovery.

Despite the setbacks, Bangladesh still have a pace attack featuring Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Ebadot Hossain and uncapped quick Musfik Hasan.

Bangladesh Under-23 head coach Alamgir Kabir believes Nahid's injury could ultimately benefit the young pacer by making him more aware of managing his workload and fitness.

Speaking to the media, Alamgir said: "I think sometimes an injury or missing a few matches can actually be a good thing. It makes a player more cautious and helps him understand how to take better care of himself. After this injury, Nahid will definitely try even harder to prevent similar setbacks in the future and learn how to manage the kind of injuries fast bowlers often face."

While admitting that Nahid's absence is a significant blow, Alamgir believes Musfik has the potential to make an impact if given the opportunity in Australia.

The right-arm pacer has previously been included in Bangladesh's Test squad but is yet to make his international debut.

"No one can truly replace Nahid. But I believe Musfik can surprise people. We've watched him closely in domestic cricket and the National Cricket League. He bowls with genuine pace, has great energy and can maintain his intensity over long spells. If he gets the chance to play, I believe he will do well."

Alamgir also spoke highly of Musfik, whom he has followed since the pacer's days in Bangladesh's Under-17 setup.

"I've known Musfik since the Under-17 team. He's a quality bowler, very energetic, capable of bowling long spells and generating good pace. He had opportunities before but didn't get to play. I believe that now he's in Australia, he can produce a strong performance."

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