Taskin Ahmed Eyes Comeback for Crucial Test Series in Pakistan

Pacer Taskin Ahmed aims to return for Bangladesh's tour to Pakistan for the ICC World Test Championship series. Having recovered from a shoulder injury, Taskin is prepping to bowl longer spells. The two-match series starts on August 21 in Rawalpindi.

Bangladesh's pace bowler Taskin Ahmed may boost the team's chances in their upcoming tour of Pakistan later this month. Taskin, who hasn't played a Test match in over a year, is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained during the lead-up to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies, the ICC reported.

With an important ICC World Test Championship series in Pakistan on the horizon, Taskin is preparing for a return to five-day cricket, provided his shoulder holds up to the physical demands, according to team physio Bayjedul Islam. 'Taskin has primarily played T20 matches recently and hasn't bowled long spells,' Islam explained. 'His shoulder injury, while persistent, hasn't worsened. With continued rehabilitation, Taskin should be available for Tests.'

Currently training with his teammates for the two-match series in Pakistan, Taskin recently participated in T20 matches for the Colombo Strikers in Sri Lanka's Lanka Premier League. The 29-year-old, who debuted in Test cricket in 2017, is aware of the need to adapt to the extended bowling workloads required in Test matches. 'He will try to build up to that workload, and if he feels better, he can definitely play in Tests,' Islam added.

Bangladesh, currently sitting in equal seventh place in the World Test Championship standings, need positive outcomes in Pakistan to stay competitive. The series begins on August 21 in Rawalpindi, followed by the second and final Test in Karachi on August 30.

(With inputs from agencies.)