Pacer Rubel Hossain has replaced the injured Mohammad Shahid in the 22-member preliminary squad for the New Zealand series. Rubel will therefore travel with the team to Australia next week in order to prepare for Bangladesh’s tour of New Zealand. 

Shahid had injured his right knee during the Bangladesh Premier League on November 27. BCB's sports physician at that point of time had said that Shahid had suffered from an ACL injury. The medical team observed Shahid for the last two weeks and ended up providing a report to the selectors that didn’t go in his favour. As per the current scenario Shahid might also have to undergo a surgery in near future. 

Chief selector Minhajul Abedin has said that they decided on Rubel because of his experience and also because he had regularly touched 140 km per hour during the BPL. 

“It came down to either Rubel or [Kamrul Islam] Rabbi. At the moment Rubel is bowling better. He has better fitness levels and has improved a lot. That’s why we decided to select him," said Minhajul.