- Taskin Ahmed is being considered as a replacement for England’s Mark Wood
- The bowler is currently serving Bangladesh in the South Africa tour
- If he is selected, he’ll have to leave the Test match series
As per reports, the Indian Premier League (IPL) debutant franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) is thinking of roping in Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed for the 15th edition of Indian league cricket. A few days ago, the franchise suffered a huge blow when Englan’s Mark Wood became unavailable due to an elbow injury. Wood was also exempted from the rest of the England tour of the West Indies series due to a flare-up in his elbow.
It is Gautam Gambhir. Lucknow’s mentor has shown interest and pitched in the idea of bringing in the Bangladeshi star player. The right-arm fast bowler is known for his speed and magic, especially with the new ball. The 26-year-old, who has never made an appearance in the IPL, has already bagged 26 wickets in 33 T20Is and according to Gambhir can be a valuable asset for the Giants.
“I want Bangladesh fast bowler Taskin Ahmed in the team and that is for the whole season. If he agrees to the offer, Taskin will have to leave for India before the next two Tests against South Africa,”
It is pertinent to mention here that the bowler is currently participating in the Bangladesh tour of South Africa for three ODIs and two Tests. Ahmed is also part of the white ball series. According to sources, the pacer was told about the decision after the second ODI and needs time to think and have discussions before he has his final say. In case of a positive decision, he will have to let go of the Tests. A source close to the Bangladesh cricket team said that the bowler will likely be released to play the IPL.
“Franchise cricket is a reality now. You can’t hold anyone even if you want to. BCB president Nazmul Hasan is also generous in accepting the reality. That’s why a key member of the team said that Taskin is more likely to get leave,”
The fifteenth edition of IPL will commence from 26th March.
Also, Read: Pakistan into the World Cup Final
