ODI World Cup 2023: Shakib Al Hasan ruled out of tournament due to finger injury

In an unfortunate turn of events, Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan has suffered an injury to his left index finger and this has ruled him out of his team's final game in the ODI World Cup 2023 against Australia on Saturday, November 11 in Pune.

The star all-rounder suffered the injury while batting in the game against Sri Lanka on Monday in Delhi. He played a match-winning knock of 82 off just 65 balls as Bangladesh won by three wickets with 53 balls to spare.

Bangladesh are currently placed at No. 7 on the points table with just two wins and six losses from eight games. They have already been eliminated but are in with a great chance to secure qualification to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a finish in the top eight (with Pakistan already qualified as hosts). However, the likes of the Netherlands and England, who are placed at No. 9 and 10, respectively, will not go down without a fight. That is exactly why the game against Australia is going to be crucial for the 'Bangla Tigers'.

Shakib had an X-ray after the match and it confirmed the fracture. National Team Physio Bayjedul Islam Khan explained the nature of Shakib's injury, saying that three to four weeks will be needed for the 36-year-old to recover.

“Shakib was struck on his left index finger early in his innings but continued to bat with supportive taping and painkillers. He underwent an emergency X-ray in Delhi after the game which confirmed the fracture on the left PIP joint. Recovery is estimated at three to four weeks. He will leave for Bangladesh today to begin his rehab," Bayjedul told the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Shakib had a disappointing World Cup campaign as he scored just 186 runs in seven games at an average of 26.57. With the ball, the legendary cricketer picked up nine wickets at 36.56. However, his experience would be missed in the Bangladesh dressing room.