Bangladesh fast bowler Taskin Ahmed believes the story could have been different had Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam not been injured ahead of Bangladesh’s first Test tour of Australia in 23 years.
With both pacers unavailable for the series opener, Taskin admitted their absence will be felt but stressed that the other bowlers now have to step up.
Speaking at a media session in Darwin on Monday, Taskin said Rana and Shoriful would have strengthened Bangladesh’s pace attack for the first Test, which begins on August 13.
Nahid has been ruled out of the two-Test series with a Grade-2 side strain, while Shoriful’s hamstring injury has kept him out of the series opener, which begins on August 13 in Darwin.
Asked if he felt more responsibility with both pacers unavailable for the first Test, Taskin said, “You know, really we’re going to miss them, especially Nahid Rana. He’s a big threat nowadays in world cricket. So, unfortunately, he got injured.”
Alongside Taskin, Bangladesh’s pace attack now comprises Hasan Mahmud, Ebadot Hossain, Khaled Ahmed and uncapped Mushfik Hasan. Despite the relative inexperience of the attack, Taskin remains hopeful that the bowlers can make the most of the opportunity.
“Myself and some other bowlers, they have a little bit of experience to do well as well. So, still let’s see how they do. And it’s a great opportunity for the bowlers playing in Australia,” he said.
Taskin also acknowledged that Bangladesh’s pace attack could have looked different had Rana and Shoriful been available. “But if they were there, Rana and Shoriful, it might be different. But still, let’s hope to do well,” he said.
