Multiple injuries have become a major concern for Bangladesh ahead of their AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers clash against Hong Kong, China, next Thursday at the National Stadium in Dhaka.
Two key defenders — Topu Barman and Tariq Kazi — are among those sidelined, putting their availability for the match in doubt.
The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) had initially named a 28-man preliminary squad. Mohammedan SC defender Zahid Hasan Shanto was later added, reportedly due to the growing injury list, although no official explanation was provided.
The team rested on Saturday at a hotel, with injured players under close medical supervision. Besides Topu and Tariq, Al Amin and Sumon Reza are also nursing injuries, while Mohammad Ibrahim has already left the camp after being ruled out.
Recovery sessions are planned as training resumes on Saturday at the National Stadium. During Friday’s session, the injured players participated in light running and stretching but skipped the main drills. Team sources said the injuries are not serious, but match fitness will be assessed closer to game day.
The squad is also awaiting the arrival of two overseas-based players — Hamza Choudhury and Shamit Shome. Hamza is expected in Dhaka on Monday morning, with Shamit following on Tuesday. Both will join training immediately, providing a timely boost to the team ahead of the decisive clash.
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
