A cloud of uncertainty hangs over newly appointed Bangladesh vice-captain Taskin Ahmed’s T20 World Cup fate as he battles a side muscle injury. Sustained during the recent series against Zimbabwe, the injury has cast doubt over his participation in the tournament, despite his inclusion in the squad in a leadership position.

While the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) initially feared Taskin might miss the World Cup, BCB President Nazmul Hasan has offered a glimmer of hope.

“If Taskin needs more than three weeks to recover, the board may call a replacement for him,” he said in a recent media interaction. “But if it takes around two weeks, they will call Taskin in the team.”

The timeline for Taskin's return to competitive cricket remains unclear. In the meantime, right-arm pacer Hasan Mahmud has been included as a traveling reserve, ready to step in if Taskin or another player is ruled out.

Despite the uncertainty, both head coach Chandika Hathurusingha and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto remain optimistic about Taskin's chances.

“We all know that Taskin is our leader of the pack in fast bowling. He’s been performing well,” Hathurusingha said, outlining the team's commitment to providing him with the best possible medical support for a swift recovery.

Shanto, while acknowledging the potential need for backup options, echoed the coach's sentiments.

"We are not expecting Taskin to not be there. We are hoping that Taskin will recover and be available from the first match," he affirmed.

The captain even went so far as to state that according to the physio and doctors, Taskin should be fit for their opening match against Sri Lanka on June 8th in Dallas.

Taskin himself has remained silent about his injury, leaving fans and the team eager for updates on his progress. His absence would be a significant blow to Bangladesh's bowling attack, especially in the unfamiliar conditions of the USA.