|| CF DESK ||

Bangladesh vice-captain Taskin Ahmed believes pacer Shoriful Islam’s absence will be a huge factor and a big loss for the team in the upcoming matches of the T20 World Cup.

Shoriful suffered a finger injury during their warm-up match against India on Saturday that ruled him out from the first match against Sri Lanka and also raised concern about missing the entire World Cup.

The incident took place during the last over of India’s innings when Shoriful Islam attempted to stop a straight drive off Hardik Pandya as he tried to stop the ball in his follow-through, Shoriful injured his left palm.

Taskin rued over his unfortunate injury but remained hopeful that he would recover soon and join the team. He also conciliated by stating that the other bowlers are prepared for the challenges ahead.

“Shoriful's situation is unfortunate. There was only one ball left. Then the ball hit his hand and caused him the injury. It's difficult to assume his current situation. It's only been three days, so we hope he recovers. We can't make any conclusions yet. Since his hand has been stitched, only the doctors can give us information," said Taskin.

“Every match is an opportunity, especially in the World Cup where there is more excitement. If Shoriful can't play, it's a big loss for our bowling attack, but the rest are ready. We're all on good terms. Even If I can't play, everyone else is ready. I hope whoever plays will give their best and it will be enough,” he added.

Bangladesh’s World Cup preparation was disastrous, having lost the three-match T20Is 2-1 against co-host USA and suffering a heavy defeat against India by 60 runs in the warm-up match.

However, Taskin was optimistic that Bangladesh could regain control with a victory, despite struggling run.

"It's not just us. Due to the weather, every team did not get the opportunity to practice properly. The field was wet due to rain, or the facilities were relatively limited. Since cricket is new in the United States, and the mental state is fine, but yes we were a bit morally down after losing," he said.

"But if we can win, then everything will be fine. We are working on our progress. The optimist believes that everything will be fine if we win," he added.