Shanto ruled out of Asia Cup

Bangladesh batter Najmul Hossain Shanto has been ruled out of the Asia Cup due to a hamstring injury, Bangladesh Cricket Board confirmed on Tuesday.

Shanto, who is currently the leading scorer of the Asia Cup with 193 runs in two matches, will return home immediately to begin his rehabilitation. Liton Das, who flew to Lahore last night following recovery from viral fever, will replace Shanto in the squad.

"The player had complained of hamstring pain during batting and could not field. We had an MRI scan done confirming a muscle tear. As a precaution, Shanto will not take any further part in the tournament and will be returning home to start rehab and prepare for the World Cup," said national Team Physio Bayjedul Islam Khan.

The 25-year-old has been the leading run-getter in the Asia Cup so far. He scored 89 runs in the first game against Sri Lanka and followed it up with a magnificent 104-run knock against Afghanistanto help Bangladesh reach the Super Four stage of the tournament.

Shanto hurt himself during the last game against Afghanistan in Lahore, during which he was seen struggling. He was later sent for an MRI, which revealed his injury.

Shanto's injury comes as a big blow to Bangladesh, who are already grappling with issues in the top-order, ahead of Wednesday's Super 4 game against Pakistan.