Mahmudullah to miss PSL playoffs after testing positive for Covid-19

Mahmudullah has become the latest Bangladesh cricketer to test positive for Covid-19, which rules him out for the PSL playoffs starting November 14. The Multan Sultans had roped in Mahmudullah in place of Moeen Ali, and he was supposed to leave Dhaka on November 9. That means Tamim Iqbal, who replaced Chris Lynn in the Lahore Qalandars squad, will be the only Bangladesh cricketer travelling to Pakistan.

Mahmudullah, Bangladesh's T20I captain, said that he got tested twice to be sure, but after two positive results, he has isolated himself in a separate room at his house.

"I was surprised with a positive result from my Covid test, on November 6," Mahmudullah told Cricday. "I didn't have fever or any other symptoms other than a bit of cold. Nothing more than that. I got tested for a second time yesterday, and that also came out as positive. I am now taking rest in a separate room. I am a little worried about my wife and kids. I am seeking everyone's prayers for quick recovery and for my family's well-being.

"It is disappointing to miss the chance to play in the PSL. It is a competitive tournament. It was a good opportunity to play a couple of matches there. I am now looking forward to getting well soon and try to participate in our Bangabandhu T20 Cup."

Mahmudullah has been in all of BCB's camps since September and has also been training individually. His team won the BCB President's Cup last month. Yesterday, he was named in Grade A of the players' draft for this month's Bangabandhu T20 Cup tournament.

Previously, Abu Jayed, Saif Hassan and Mashrafe Mortaza had tested positive and subsequently recovered. A few cricketers and coaching staff from the Under-19 camp had also tested positive last month.

According to the official figures, there have been 418,764 Covid-19 cases in Bangladesh, with over 6000 deaths.