Bangladesh have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their T20 International (T20I) series against Pakistan, as key all-rounder Soumya Sarkar has been ruled out due to a back injury.
Injury details of Soumya Sarkar
Soumya Sarkar, who had already missed Bangladesh’s recent T20I series against the UAE in Sharjah, has been struggling with pain on the right side of his lower back for the past week. Team physiotherapist Bayjedul Islam Khan provided an update and in his official statement said: “Following medical evaluation, it has been determined that the injury requires an extended rehabilitation period of approximately 10 to 12 days. This effectively means he will not be available for next week’s three-match series in Pakistan.”
The loss of Sarkar, a versatile player known for his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, comes at a challenging time for Bangladesh. The team is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2-1 series defeat to the UAE, where Sarkar’s absence was already felt.
Sarkar’s replacement for Pakistan tour
Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who was initially omitted from the T20I squads for the UAE and Pakistan tours, has now been drafted in as Sarkar’s replacement. Miraz is currently playing for Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) playoffs and will join the Bangladesh squad in Lahore after completing his franchise commitments.
Miraz’s recall comes on the back of a stellar 2024-25 season. He was named Player of the Tournament in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025, amassing 355 runs and taking 13 wickets. Additionally, he was awarded Player of the Test Series against Zimbabwe for his three five-wicket hauls and a century, underlining his all-round capabilities.
In addition to Sarkar, fast bowler Nahid Rana, fielding coach James Pamment and trainer Nathan Kiely will also miss the tour. Mustafizur Rahman is set to join the squad after completing his IPL 2025 commitments.
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Bangladesh tour of Pakistan 2025: Schedule
The Bangladesh squad, led by Litton Das, will reach Lahore on May 25, with training sessions scheduled for May 26 and 27. The T20I series, originally planned as a five-match contest, has been reduced to three games due to political tensions in the region. All matches will be held at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on May 28, May 30 and June 1.
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