Bangladesh face injury concerns ahead of series decider against India

Before the nail-biting finale to the thrilling three-match ODI series between Bangladesh and India, Bangladesh women's team finds themselves grappling with injury setbacks ahead the decisive clash at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Saturday (July 22). The team's medical staff is closely monitoring the condition of two key players, Shorna Akter and skipper Nigar Sultana, who are doubtful for the crucial encounter due to health issues.

Shorna Akter, who experienced discomfort in her stomach during the series opener, was unable to take part in the second match. It appears she is still unfit and may not be available for the series decider. Her absence would undoubtedly be felt, given her crucial contributions to the team's performance.

"She (Shorna) is unfit at the moment," the head coach of Team Bangladesh, Hashan Tillakratne was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz. 

Adding to the injury woes, skipper Nigar Sultana also suffered from a heat-related illness during the second game. Frequent vomiting forced her to alter her batting position, and her availability for the series decider remains uncertain. A fitness test on the morning of the match will determine whether she can lead the side onto the field against a formidable Indian team.

Tillakaratne expressed confidence in the team's ability to bounce back, saying, "They are confident. Just that the second game didn't go as we expected. We had a few discussions after the last game. We have come up with some plans. Now players are very confident, and we are hoping that they will come up with a good performance tomorrow."

However, one aspect of concern for the Bangladesh women's team has been the consistency of their batting unit. The coach emphasized the need for the batters to exercise more patience and not throw away their wickets after getting starts. The team's inability to convert good starts into substantial scores has cost them dearly in the previous matches.

"The biggest concern is eating up lots of dot balls. We have had a few discussions. I am sure they will come up with some good performance tomorrow," remarked Tillakaratne.

While the team possesses technically correct batters like Murshida Khatun, the coach believes that they need to instill a stronger mindset for playing long innings. He further highlighted the significance of improved fitness levels, and to that end, the team is already working with a new trainer from England.