Nahid Rana Ruled Out of Australia Tests After Side Strain

Selector-cited GPS workload data justified his white-ball use, leaving Bangladesh with fewer frontline pace options for the Australia Tests.

Overview

Scans have confirmed Rana suffered a Grade 2 left‑side strain that rules him out of Bangladesh’s two Tests in Australia and carries a multi‑week recovery window.
Chief selector Habibul Bashar said the injury occurred after the second T20I following Rana’s participation in two ODIs that were part of World Cup preparation.
Bashar defended the decision to play Rana by pointing to the BCB’s formal workload policy and GPS tracking, arguing fast bowlers must bowl match overs to stay match‑ready.
Rana has taken 44 wickets this year with multiple five‑wicket hauls, so his absence removes a leading source of pace, bounce and recent form from Bangladesh’s touring attack.
Bangladesh now face broader selection and fitness pressure ahead of the tour as other fast‑bowler issues are being assessed and the board has arranged specialist medical reviews for Rana and Taskin in Australia.