Tamim on way to becoming fit for South Africa ODIs

Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal is on his way to becoming fit for the three-match ODI series against South Africa, according to a team source. The Tigers took part in a gym session Tuesday ahead of their practice match against Cricket South Africa Invitation XI at Mangaung Oval Thursday. Tamim also worked out with the full team. "Tamim’s fitness has been improving gradually. He also lifted weights during gym session. He will bat in the nets Wednesday. He has a good chance of participating in the warm-up game Thursday,” Bangladesh team manager Minhajul Abedin Nannu, who also happens to be the chief selector, informed at their team hotel in Bloemfontein Tuesday.

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Tamim incurred a grade one tear in his left thigh muscle during the three-day practice match against CSA XI at Willowmoore Park in Benoni. But he became match-fit before the first Test at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom, scoring 39 and nought. It was learnt that Tamim felt discomfort in the same thigh during the Potchefstroom Test. He aggravated the injury while fielding in the first innings. And eventually the left-handed opener was ruled out from the second Test.

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Tamim's absence at the top of the batting order was a big blow for the Tigers as the experienced campaigner is in good form this year. Tamim scored 537 runs in 16 innings this year with an average of 33.56. The first ODI will be played at De Beers Diamond Oval in Kimberley Sunday.