Shahid in doubt for NZ tour

Bangladesh pacer Mohammad Shahid, who had injured his right knee while fielding during the game between the Dhaka Dynamites and the Comilla Victorians at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Saturday, is in danger of missing the New Zealand series, which is set to begin in late December.

Shahid, who scalped 15 wickets in eight games at an impressive average of 12.46, had missed out on the England series due to injury as well. Just when things seemed to be going well for the 28-year-old, he hurt himself again.

“For now he has been asked to rest for two weeks. He has suffered from an ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injury. If his leg continues to hurt after two weeks then his period of rest will be increased,” BCB sports physician told The Daily Star yesterday.

Despite the setback, chief selector Minhajul Abedin was confident that Shahid would be able to return to the field before the first Test against New Zealand on January 12.

“Although the series is beginning on December 26, Shahid has been taken in the squad for the Tests. As a result, he has ample time to recover. Let's see what happens,” Minhajul told The Daily Star.

Apart from Shahid, three other players from the 22-member preliminary squad for the New Zealand series -- Mustafizur Rahman, Ebadat Hossain and Tanveer Haider -- are still recovering from injuries.

Mustafizur is progressing gradually, while Ebadat and Tanveer, according to Minhajul, have almost recovered and should be fit before the Tigers leave for Australia on December 9.