Shakib Al Hasan Ruled Out of Bangladesh's Final World Cup 2023 Clash Against Australia

Bangladesh's World Cup 2023 campaign has been dealt a significant blow as their skipper, Shakib Al Hasan, will be absent from their crucial showdown against Australia. The all-rounder, who recently led his team to a hard-fought three-wicket victory against Sri Lanka, sustained a finger injury during the match.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed this development in a news release issued on Tuesday, stating, "An injury to his left index finger has ruled Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan out of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023."

Shakib suffered the injury while batting in Bangladesh's pursuit of a target of 280. Despite the early blow to his left index finger, he continued to play, eventually scoring an impressive 82 from 65 balls. Bangladesh's Team Physio, Bayjedul Islam Khan, provided further details about the injury, saying, "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."

Bangladesh's Final World Cup Clash:

Bangladesh currently occupies the 7th spot in the World Cup 2023 points table, with 2 wins in 8 matches. They are already eliminated from the tournament. The Bangla Tigers are set to face Australia in their final league match of the World Cup 2023 on November 11 in Pune. However, their challenge doesn't end there as they are vying for a spot in the Champions Trophy.

The leadership void left by Shakib's absence in the game against Australia has yet to be filled. Bangladesh is in dire need of a victory to improve their chances of qualifying for the eight-team Champions Trophy in 2025. Only the top eight sides, including the host nation Pakistan, will secure a place in this prestigious event.