Nahid Rana likely to miss Big Bash League: Bangladesh NOC chances remain slim

Last Updated on 41 seconds ago by Charbel Coorey

Bangladesh fast bowler Nahid Rana is unlikely to receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to play in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) despite reported interest from franchises. The Adelaide Strikers and a Melbourne franchise are reportedly interested in the 23-year-old pacer.

Bangladesh’s packed international schedule and Rana’s recent injury are expected to be taken into account by the BCB before taking any decision on his availability for the tournament, which is scheduled from December 12 to January 26.

Chances of Nahid Rana receiving an NOC to play in the BBL are slim – BCB official

“We haven’t got any official NOC request from Rana but we have seen some reports that the BBL team wants him,” said the BCB official.

“We are also seeing in different platforms that some BBL franchises are eager to secure Rana, but we have not received any official letter for NOC from him. If he submits it, the board will decide whether he will get the NOC but chances are very slim for him to get the NOC considering the fact we have international commitments,” the official said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

The official also referred to Rana’s recent recovery from a Grade 2 side strain, which had ruled him out of Bangladesh’s two Test matches against Australia. Despite the excellent performance by the Bangladeshi pace bowlers in Australia, the BCB recognises Rana’s importance as he possesses raw pace and is an X-factor player.

“He (Rana) just recovered from an injury and we need to keep an eye on that as well because his fitness and workload is one of our top priorities,” the official added.

RELATED: Bangladesh’s chief selector Habibul Bashar feels Nahid Rana’s injury is “unfortunate”

Rana returned to bowling earlier this week but is set to miss the Asian Games in September. There are plans for his comeback in Bangladesh’s series against Afghanistan in the UAE in October.

Nahid Rana is busy with the Bangladesh schedule

That could give Rana a busy international schedule to anticipate after his injury rehab. Bangladesh are set to host the West Indies for a two-match Test series in October and November as part of their ICC World Test Championship cycle.

The squad will then travel to South Africa for a full tour in November and December comprising two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is.

There’s also uncertainty over India’s proposed tour of Bangladesh. A six-match white ball series, originally scheduled for September, is being reported as being shifted to January. BCB president Tamim Iqbal holds out hope of India’s visit but the series is yet to be officially confirmed or postponed.

Bangladesh is also due to host England for a two-match Test series early next year. The BCB has a host of international assignments lined up and it is highly probable they will prioritise Rana’s fitness and workload over his participation in the BBL.

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