World Cup: Mashrafe Mortaza May Skip New Zealand Game due to Fine, Fitness

Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza is unlikely to face New Zealand in the World Cup on Friday as he struggles for fitness while he also faces the threat of suspension over slow over rates. (Complete World Cup 2015 coverage | Points Table | Pics | History)

The 31-year-old did not train on Thursday with coach Chandika Hathurusingha admitting the veteran has been under the weather. (Bangladesh fined for slow over-rate vs England)

"He (Masharfe) has had a sore throat so we will take the decision (over playing him) tomorrow," said Bangladesh's Sri Lankan coach. (Bangladesh erupts in joy)

Mashrafe is also nursing a calf injury which he sustained in the win over Scotland but still played against England, taking 2-48 as his team claimed a 15-run win which put them into the quarter-finals for the first time. (Rape case against Rubel Hossain dropped)

Mashrafe is also under threat of suspension for slow over rates which would rule him out of the quarter-finals where they are likely to face defending champions India. (Mahmudullah elated after 'special victory' over England)

Bangladesh were two overs short of their target against England in Adelaide and Mashrafe was fined 40 percent of his match fee, while his players were docked 20 percent.

Under International Cricket Council rules a captain can be suspended for two minor over-rate offences or one serious offence during the event.