Najmul Hossain Shanto ruled out of Asian Games with fever

Bangladeshi cricketer Najmul Hossain Shanto has been ruled out of the Asian Games after falling ill with fever since arriving in Nagoya with the team. Medical assessment confirmed evidence of an infection, though tests ruled out influenza and COVID-19. The decision to withdraw him from the tournament was made following evaluation by the Bangladeshi contingent doctor, BCB physiotherapist Bayjedul Islam Khan, and the local medical team.

Shanto is returning home on the earliest available flight on Tuesday. The medical team determined that his condition required him to be ruled out of further competition at the Games. The news comes on the eve of Bangladesh's clash against Malaysia in Nisshin on Tuesday, September 29.

"Please be informed that our cricketer Nazmul Hussain Shanto is unwell, according to a statement from the Bangladesh Olympic Association. After assessment by the Bangladeshi contingent doctor and BCB physiotherapist, as well as the local medical team, it has been advised that he has to be ruled out from the Asian Games. He is returning home tomorrow on the earliest available flight. On behalf of the Bangladesh Olympic Association, CDM Bangladesh contingent Major Imroze Ahmed (retd) wished Shanto all the best and a quick full recovery, as well as safe travel to his destination," the Bangladesh Olympic Association (BOA) said in a message to the media on Monday.

Shanto had missed both pre-tournament practice matches in Mirpur due to an abrasion before the Asian Games began. His withdrawal marks a significant absence for Bangladesh at a critical stage of the tournament. The left-handed batter was recalled to the T20I squad on September 2, 2026, after an extended absence from the format, with his last T20I appearance dating back to May 19, 2025, against the UAE.

What Das said on weather and team strategy

Bangladesh captain Litton Das addressed the impact of weather conditions on the upcoming quarterfinal against Malaysia scheduled for Tuesday. Rain had already washed out two quarterfinals on Monday, raising concerns about the tournament schedule.

"If the match doesn't take place, we can't do anything. No one has control over the rain," the wicketkeeper-batter said.

Das outlined the team's approach for the upcoming match, emphasising the importance of bowling strength in the conditions expected in Nagoya. He indicated that Bangladesh would prioritise their best bowlers and adjust the team combination accordingly.

"I think the wicket will be favourable for the bowlers. We will try to play our best bowlers, and overall the team combination can be five bowlers and seven batters," Das added.

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The captain's comments reflected the team's focus on adapting to the tournament conditions while managing the absence of Shanto from the squad.