RUBEL HAPPY: Bangladesh pacer Rubel Hossain is escorted out of the Dhaka Central Jail after he was granted bail yesterday afternoon. Photo: Star

National team cricketer Rubel Hossain was released from the Dhaka Central Jail yesterday afternoon, hours after securing bail in a rape case filed against him by film actress Naznin Akter Happy. According to Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials and Rubel's laywer, the player will now be available to play for Bangladesh in the World Cup.

The pacer walked out of the prison at around 4:45pm, Farman Ali, senior jail super of the Dhaka jail, told The Daily Star.

Earlier in the day, Judge (in-charge) KM Imrul Kayes of the Metropolitan Sessions Judge's Court of Dhaka granted Rubel bail till submission of the police report, after hearing his petition.

During yesterday's hearing, defence lawyers told the court that Rubel was selected for the upcoming ICC World Cup and that he had to leave for Australia on January 24.

The defence further said that if he is not granted bail then there would be an irreparable loss to the country, adding that the charge brought against Rubel was not primarily proven.

On the other hand, the prosecution remained silent and added that they assisted for granting bail to the cricketer considering it as a national issue.

BCB director Akram Khan yesterday told reporters that they were relieved to see Rubel walk out of jail.

“60 per cent of our fast bowlers generally struggle with injury issues so we are relieved that we can consider him now. He is fit, experienced and would have been our first option.

“He was a little tense yesterday, but I am sure that he will be fine for the World Cup after getting bail. Hopefully he can give it his all in the World Cup,” said Akram.

Chief selector Faruque Ahmed echoed Akram's views and was happy after the bowler received bail.