Bangladesh cricket has received a significant boost ahead of their upcoming Test series tours against Pakistan and India. Veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has confirmed his availability for all eight Tests slated for 2024, much to the relief and excitement of the national team and its supporters. This commitment was confirmed by the chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain, who shared that Shakib will be a part of the crucial matches, which include two Tests against Pakistan starting from August 21 and subsequent matches in India.
Initially, Shakib’s participation, particularly in the tour to India, was in doubt. However, Ashraf revealed that the seasoned cricketer had committed to playing the entire year’s Test schedule during discussions held in July. Shakib recently represented the Bangla Tigers in the Global T20 Canada tournament, which concluded on August 11. With this competition behind him, Shakib is now set to join his national team directly in Pakistan within the coming days.
“Towards the end of July, we engaged in conversations with Shakib regarding his fitness and future plans during the Zimbabwe series,” Ashraf stated. “Understanding his short-term plans was crucial given our packed schedule, with eight Test matches lined up by December. Shakib assured us he would participate in all the Tests and attend all practice sessions before each series. He is expected to join the team around August 14 or 15.”
The 37-year-old Shakib Al Hasan has not played much red-ball cricket over the past two years, participating in only four out of eight Tests for Bangladesh. Given his recent involvement in T20 leagues, there are concerns about how quickly he can adapt to the more demanding Test format. Additionally, Shakib has been dealing with vision issues over the last year. Nevertheless, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) medical team has not flagged any significant problems concerning his eyesight.
“I haven’t received any alarming updates from our medical team about his eyes,” Ashraf added.
. “Shakib remains one of the finest all-rounders globally for the past 15 years. His capability to excel in different formats and his impressive record against Pakistan justify his inclusion in the team. He is an invaluable asset and will be playing as an all-rounder in the Pakistan Tests.”
Ashraf further emphasized the importance of Shakib’s involvement in practice sessions as a criterion for his selection. “Knowing his availability for all practice sessions before the series was crucial from our selection standpoint. We altered our travel plans a bit; he will likely join the side on the 14th or 15th of August and will practice with the team.”
The Bangladesh Test squad for the Pakistan series is as follows: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, and Syed Khaled Ahmed.
This decision from Shakib comes at a crucial time for Bangladesh cricket, which has been grappling with inconsistent performances in the longer format. His experience and versatility are expected to bolster the team’s prospects significantly. As a player, Shakib’s statistics and his ability to perform under pressure are unparalleled, making him a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s cricketing ambitions.
The cricketing world will keenly watch as Shakib re-enters the Test arena, assessing how his performance will influence the outcomes of these vital series. His assurance of full participation is seen not only as a personal commitment to the sport but also as a morale booster for a team looking to make a strong impression on the international stage.
As Bangladesh prepares to face Pakistan and subsequently India, fans and analysts alike are eager to see Shakib Al Hasan back in action, bringing his unique blend of skill and experience to the game. The upcoming months promise to be an exciting period for Bangladesh cricket, with high hopes pinned on their veteran all-rounder to lead the team to success.
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The anticipation builds as Shakib gears up to join his teammates, ready to tackle the challenges ahead with the same fervor and commitment that have come to define his illustrious career.
