Bangladesh physio claims Mustafizur Rahman may collapse anytime unless given proper rest

Mustafizur Rahman may have confounded batsmen all over the world with his assortment of slower deliveries. However, he has also presented the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) with a dilemma on how to monitor his burgeoning workload.

Speaking to AFP, Bangladesh national team physio Baizidul Islam revealed that the BCB were worried about the 20-year old’s fitness. While admitting that playing in the IPL did not aggravate his injury, he felt that Mustafizur needed some time off for rejuvenation.

Baizidul asserted, "We must consider that he played 19 matches in two months after recovering from injuries. So, there must be some fatigue. He also developed some problems in his right ankle which is creating a problem for his landing after completing a delivery.”

He went on to claim, “Mustafizur needs some rest to remove the stress. If he continues like this, he may collapse anytime. We need to assess him carefully to see how long he needs to stay away from cricket.”

Nicknamed the ‘Fizz’, the left-arm seamer is slated to join English domestic side Sussex during next week as their second overseas player for the Natwest T20 Blast as well as the Royal London One-day Cup.

However, the BCB’s concerns over Mustafizur’s fitness may be an obstacle in the youngster plying his trade in England. The board’s Chief Executive Officer Nizamuddin Chowdhury stated that they may take a decision on the situation during next week.

Nizamuddin affirmed, “We will assess his condition next week before making a final decision on whether he’ll be allowed to play in England.” But, Mustafizur was greeted by adoring fans upon his arrival in Bangladesh with the deputy minister even terming him as a ‘national hero’ for a successful stint in the IPL.

Representing the Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rahman ended the tournament as the fifth highest wicket-taker with 17 scalps from 16 matches at an average of 24.76. However, his economy rate of 6.90 was comfortably the best among all bowlers who had played at least 10 games.

For his exploits, the canny seamer was awarded the ‘Emerging Player of the Season’ as SRH lifted the title. With Sussex having won their first two matches in the Natwest T20 Blast, Mustafizur’s presence could strengthen the bowling attack further.