Bangladesh Hit by Injury Blow Ahead of Asian Games Cricket Competition

Mohammed Saifuddin’s hopes of playing for Bangladesh at the 2026 Asian Games have ended after the allrounder picked up a hamstring problem.

The injury occurred during a practice session on Saturday when Saifuddin felt pain in his right hamstring while bowling. A scan was later carried out to check the issue.

Bangladesh Cricket Board physio Bayjedul Islam Khan confirmed the injury in a statement, saying the 29-year-old will need about three weeks to complete his rehabilitation.

With that recovery period in mind, Saifuddin will not be available for Bangladesh’s men’s cricket campaign at the Asian Games 2026. It could prove to be a major setback for the Tigers, as Saifuddin is considered an important part of Bangladesh's team in T20 internationals.

"Saifuddin complained of pain in his right hamstring while bowling during the practice session on 19 September. Following a physical examination and MRI, the injury was confirmed," said Bangladesh Cricket Board physio Bayjedul Islam Khan.

"He will require approximately three weeks of rehabilitation to recover." added Bayjedul Islam Khan.

The BCB has also informed the Bangladesh Olympic Association (BOA) that Saifuddin will not be available for the tournament. The board is expected to select another player, but the replacement will first need approval from the Games authorities.

Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first match on September 28 in the fourth quarter-final. Their opponent will be the winner of Group B. All men’s cricket matches will take place at Korogi Sports Park, including the gold-medal match on October 3.

Bangladesh Squad for Asian Games Men's Cricket Competition

Litton Das (c), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Mosaddek Hossain, Yasir Ali, Rishad Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Mohammad Saifuddin, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman and Hasan Mahmud.