Bangladesh sweating over fitness of Mehidy Hasan Miraz

**Bangladesh sweating over fitness of Mehidy Hasan Miraz

Bangladesh is keeping fingers crossed for the availability of in-form allrounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz for the two-match Test series opener at Galle, scheduled to begin on June 17.

Miraz skipped the previous training session due to a fever, and doubts were raised regarding his availability as he failed to attend the training session on Monday (June 16). Although his medical examination report declared him virus-free, he seemed extremely weak.

Bangladesh skipper Nazmul Hossain Shanto said that Mehidy's unavailability will surely have an impact on their combination. "Miraz condition is better than before but he is still under observation," Shanto told reporters at Galle on Monday.

Shanto also emphasized the importance of starting the World Test Championship's 2025-27 cycle on the right note, adding that they can take inspiration from their past results in the island country.

"It is very important to start the WTC in a positive note. We had good preparation back home. I hope we can start the competition very well. We have good memories in Sri Lanka, which will be helpful but every series is a new beginning. The top order has to provide the team with a good start. We have a good squad here, so it will be a great opportunity to do something special here," he said.

Shanto also expressed his confidence in the team's ability to bat well, despite the challenges posed by spinners at the Galle venue. "I am happy with the Test squad. I think it is also quite positive that we all could agree on this combination. It is a balanced side with enough options for batting and bowling. We can pick the XI depending on the opposition and conditions. We also have to execute our plans by playing good cricket," he added.