Bangladesh batsman Mahmudullah Riyad's recovery from a calf muscle tear seemed to be on course as the right-hander batted for a prolonged period at the outer nets of Edgbaston, the venue for today's all-important World Cup match against India.
Mahmudullah had sustained a Grade 1 tear on his right calf muscle during the Tigers' previous match against Afghanistan in Southampton on June 24. The ensuing seven-day break between matches would have helped the senior batsman recover as it takes around seven to 10 days to recover from the injury.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. He appeared to be untroubled by the injury as he was skipping down the track to spinners and hopping on the back foot against pacers without any problem.
Skipper Mashrafe Bin Mortaza was however cautious about his chances while speaking to the media ahead of today's game.
"The physio [Thihan Chandramohan] has not yet given a final call, so there is some time on that front," said Mashrafe, who has also been struggling with a hamstring tear. "I have bowled today, so I am okay," the skipper said on his own fitness.
Mahmudullah is a vital component of the batting order at number six. He has finished off the innings with a flourish in the win over South Africa on June 2 and also gave notice off his six-hitting prowess during the 48-run loss to Australia on June 20. Bangladesh would desperately need his services in the do-or-die match against India today.
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