Bangladesh pace bowler Ebadot Hossain's participation in the upcoming World Cup appears uncertain as he races against time to regain fitness before the 50-over global tournament scheduled in India from October 5.
Officials from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed to Cricbuzz that they are contemplating sending Ebadot abroad for a second opinion on his knee injury. This injury had led to his withdrawal from the upcoming Asia Cup as he couldn't achieve the expected recovery after rehabilitation.
Reports indicate that Kiron Thoms, the newly-appointed Australian physio and rehabilitation manager, will accompany Ebadot for a check-up session in England during the first week of the upcoming month.
Ebadot suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during last month's ODI series against Afghanistan. A BCB official mentioned, "If he requires surgery, he will almost certainly miss the World Cup." The official added that Ebadot's condition has not improved as expected, preventing him from bearing the required load. This complex situation poses a challenge for the team management, who must swiftly devise a plan for the significant global tournament.
The cricket board is keen on exploring all available options in light of the impending World Cup. The board intends for Ebadot to consult an overseas specialist who specifically deals with knee problems. "The cricket board is treating this matter with the utmost seriousness," the official stated. "While we've provided him with a workload, Ebadot has struggled to manage it effectively. His inability to cope with the intensity resulted in his exclusion from the Asia Cup squad," the official further elaborated.The official expressed hope that Ebadot can resolve his issues and participate, but pointed out the challenges. "Though there's a chance he could manage it with two to three more months, time is a luxury we lack. The World Cup squad announcement is imminent, and the coach needs clarity on his condition to shape his strategies accordingly."
The 29-year-old pacer, who represented the Tigers in 12 ODIs since his 50-over debut last year, was replaced by Tanzim Shakib for the Asia Cup.