Taskin says he is 'fully-fit'

Young pacer Taskin Ahmed declared himself available from the start of the Zimbabwe series yesterday, saying that he was fully-fit.  The Bangladesh-Zimbabwe three-match ODI and two-match T20I series will get underway with the first one-day international on November 7 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

"I bowled today and I felt no problem with regards to my pace and I didn't have any reason to complain to the physio either. I am now fully-fit. If I get the chance, then I will be available from the first match of the series," said a confident Taskin -- who suffered a side-strain during the Bangladesh A team's tour to India last month -- after the first day of training at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday.

The national selectors had an eye on giving Taskin some matches in the upcoming series which is why he was included in the 18-member preliminary squad, which began training yesterday without all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan -- who is expected to return from the United States of America tomorrow -- and six other players who are currently touring with Bangladesh A in South Africa.

"I bowled with 100 per cent effort in the last two days and faced no problems. I think within the next two days I will get full confidence when I bowl in the nets. I am looking forward to returning to international cricket and I am confident I will do well if I am given the chance," said Taskin.

"The last time when I was out of international cricket was during the home series against India. I was in a bit of a hurry to finish my rehabilitation programme and that may be the reason why I suffered the side-strain. But this time I am satisfied with my five-week rehab and I have also got back my rhythm," he added.

Taskin also said that he was looking forward to bowling with new pace bowling sensation Mustafizur Rahman.

"We are two youngest guys in the team at the moment and we have a desire to take the responsibility of the Bangladesh bowling attack in the future. I am looking forward to bowling alongside him and if I get the chance to bowl with him in the series against Zimbabwe, I will try to give my best," he said.

The young pacer expressed his happiness as they are going to play international cricket at home after Australia postponed their tour citing security concerns.  Taskin also was not ready to take Zimbabwe lightly despite their recent poor showing against Afghanistan at home.