Bangladesh breathed a sigh of relief as Mehidy Hasan Miraz, the Test vice-captain, is expected to be fit for selection in the second Test of the ongoing two-match series against Sri Lanka in Colombo.
Mehidy was absent from the first Test in Galle after he fell ill with a fever just days before the match. His absence during the two-day training session raised doubts about his fitness for the second Test. However, all concerns were alleviated when the all-rounder joined his team for the training session on June 19.
Mehidy Returns to Training Ahead of Second Test
On Thursday (June 19), team manager Nafees Iqbal confirmed to Cricbuzz that Mehidy was feeling much better and had joined the team’s practice session in Colombo. “He (Mehidy) is much better and came to the ground today,” Iqbal said. With the all-rounder’s recovery on track, Mehidy is now expected to be available for selection in the second Test, which will begin on June 25.
Mehidy’s absence from the opening Test led to concerns about his availability for the second game. However, his return to full fitness has given Bangladesh a major boost, especially with the second Test scheduled to be played on a spin-friendly pitch in Colombo. Mehidy’s bowling skills and his ability to contribute with the bat will be crucial for Bangladesh, who will be hoping to level the series after losing the opening game.
Replacement for Mehidy in the Opening Test: Anamul Haque Bijoy
With Mehidy unavailable for the opening Test, top-order batter Anamul Haque Bijoy was called up to replace him in the squad. However, Bijoy’s performance in the Test match left much to be desired, as he was dismissed for a duck in the first innings. Despite his failure with the bat, the decision to bring Mehidy back for the second Test will strengthen Bangladesh’s middle order.
Mehidy is one of Bangladesh’s top run-getters in Test cricket, and his return to the lineup will provide much-needed balance. His all-round contributions—especially in spin-friendly conditions—make him a key player for the second Test.
Spin Consultant Mushtaq Ahmed to Return in July
Meanwhile, Mushtaq Ahmed, the spin bowling consultant for Bangladesh Cricket, left Galle on June 17, prior to the start of the ongoing Test series. Mushtaq had been working closely with the Bangladesh spinners during their training sessions in Dhaka and Galle in preparation for the series.
A Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official confirmed that Mushtaq’s contract is based on the number of working days, and he has completed his scheduled duties for the Test series. The official also clarified that Mushtaq will return to the squad during the ODI series, which begins in early July.
“BCB and Mushtaq have a contract based on the number of working days. He was present during the preparation phase and left after completing his scheduled duties. He will return on July 6,” Nafees Iqbal said.
Looking Ahead: Bangladesh’s Plans for the Second Test
As Bangladesh prepares for the second Test against Sri Lanka, they will rely heavily on their spinners, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz playing a key role. The Colombo pitch is expected to assist the spinners, and Mehidy’s return will give Bangladesh a much-needed edge in the spin department.
The absence of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne from the Australian Test squad has shifted the spotlight onto the spinners and how teams manage to create opportunities in these conditions. Bangladesh will be looking to bounce back after a challenging start to the series.
Conclusion: Mehidy’s Return Boosts Bangladesh’s Chances
Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s recovery from illness and return to fitness is a significant boost for Bangladesh as they aim to level the series in Colombo. His all-round abilities will be crucial for the team in the second Test, especially in conditions that favor spin. With Mehidy’s experience and skill, along with support from Shakib Al Hasan and other spinners, Bangladesh will be looking to put pressure on Sri Lanka and take the series into a decider.
