Shakib set to return tomorrow

Bangladesh's star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is expected to return to Bangladesh from Australia tomorrow after treatment for his left hand's injured little finger.

The Tigers' Test and T20I skipper went to Melbourne on October 5 after returning midway through the Asia Cup. He also underwent surgery in Dhaka to remove pus from the infected finger.

Shakib was placed under 72-hours observation by Doctor Greg Hoy, during which he was given antibiotics and injections which helped improve his condition. He was discharged yesterday.

He has begun rehabilitation but the cricketer will not be able to undergo surgery for at least the next six months, until the infection fully subsides. However, Shakib is expected to return to the field after three months so that his condition can be observed. There is a slim chance to avoid surgery altogether though if the pain in his finger subsides completely after three months.

Shakib sustained the injury during the final of the tri-nation series at home against Sri Lanka in January this year while trying to stop a ball.