Miraz uncertain for first Test against SL

Mehedi Hasan Miraz is uncertain for the first of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka starting next month as the all-rounder will be out of action for two weeks after fracturing his right hand's little finger during a Dhaka Premier League game on Sunday.

"Miraz has dislocated his right hand's little finger and there is also a slight fracture on his finger. We have recommended him two weeks of rest and will observe his condition later," said Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) chief physician Debashish Chowdhury to The Daily Star today.

The first Test against Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin on May 15 in Chattogram while the second and final Test will take place on May 25 in Mirpur. Keeping Miraz in the squad, the selectors have already announced the Tigers' squad for the first Test. 

Since the 24-year-old has been given two weeks of rest till May 9, it is still not sure whether the cricketer will be able to recover fully ahead of the first Test. 

"We can't tell anything at the moment as we have to observe his situation and then make a decision.  During the two-week rest, Miraz will only do his leg exercise and cannot move his hands," he said. 

Meanwhile selector Habibul Bashar informed that they are yet to decide whether to include any replacement of Miraz but according to sources, spinner Nayeem Hasan will likely be called up in case a replacement is needed.

"It seems that Miraz is doubtful for the first Test due to his finger injury, however, it is still not confirmed. We will wait and later decide whether to include a replacement of Miraz or not in the coming days," said Bashar.