Mustafizur Rahman Ruled Out of Pakistan T20Is Due to Thumb Injury, Khaled Ahmed Named as Replacement

By Swapneel Deshpande 26 May 2025, 11:34 IST

Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match T20I series against Pakistan. He suffered a thumb injury while playing for Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Right-arm fast bowler Khaled Ahmed has been named as his replacement.

Injury During IPL Clash Against Sunrisers

Mustafizur’s injury happened during Delhi Capitals’ recent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The left-arm seamer attempted a caught-and-bowled chance off Australian batter Josh Inglis. However, the ball struck his left thumb, resulting in a clip fracture. He was in visible pain and did not complete his spell.

Following medical assessment, Bangladesh national team physio Delowar Hossain confirmed the nature of the injury. “Mustafizur suffered a clip fracture on his left thumb while playing in the IPL. This injury requires rest and rehabilitation,” he said. According to Hossain, Mustafizur will be out for two to three weeks, and his recovery will be reviewed after two weeks.

Khaled Ahmed Earns National Recall

With Mustafizur sidelined, Bangladesh selectors have called up Khaled Ahmed as a replacement. Khaled has been in good form in domestic cricket. He claimed 20 wickets in the recent Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), making a strong case for national selection. The 31-year-old pacer will now join the squad in Lahore ahead of the series.

This call-up offers Khaled an opportunity to cement his place in the team, especially with a busy international calendar ahead.

Injury Concerns for Bangladesh Ahead of Pakistan Series

Mustafizur’s injury adds to Bangladesh’s growing list of unavailable players. Earlier, pacer Nahid Rana pulled out of the squad due to personal reasons. Soumya Sarkar was also ruled out with a back injury. All-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz replaced Soumya in the squad.

Bangladesh will play three T20Is against Pakistan on May 28, May 30, and June 1. All matches will be held in Lahore. The team is hoping to bounce back after a 2-1 series defeat to the UAE in Sharjah earlier this month.

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