Bangladesh pacer Rubel Hossain has replaced the injured Mohammad Shahid in the 22-member preliminary squad for the New Zealand series. Rubel will therefore travel with the team to Australia next week in order to prepare for Bangladesh's tour of New Zealand.

Shahid had injured his right knee during the Bangladesh Premier League on November 27. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) sports physician had then said that Shahid had sustained an ACL injury. The medical team observed Shahid for the last two weeks and provided a report to the selectors that did not go in his favour. As per the current scenario Shahid might also have to undergo a surgery in the near future.

Chief selector Minhajul Abedin said yesterday that they decided on Rubel because of his experience and also because he had regularly touched the 140 km/h mark during the BPL.

“It came down to either Rubel or [Kamrul Islam] Rabbi. At the moment Rubel is bowling better. He has better fitness levels and has improved a lot. That's why we decided to select him.

“Rubel did play well in the World Cup in New Zealand and Australia last year but that was a long time ago. Hopefully he can do well again. It's good to have another experienced bowler in the squad. There is after all no substitute for experience,” said Minhajul.

The BCB will announce the 15-member ODI squad on December 21. The series will begin on December 26.

The decision to include Rubel was taken in a meeting that took place at the BCB headquarters yesterday afternoon. The selectors, along with the medical team, were present at the meeting.

A wide array of issues was discussed including the fitness concerns of Tanveer Haider, Mustafizur Rahman and Ebadat Hossain. All three players have been deemed fit.