The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially put an end to the suspense surrounding star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan’s involvement in the much-anticipated Test series against India. In a statement that should reassure fans, Nazmul Abedin, a BCB director, confirmed that Shakib will indeed be a part of the squad traveling to India, even though he will miss the preparatory camp scheduled to begin on September 9 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.
“Shakib will come to India from England to play,” Abedin disclosed in an exclusive conversation with Cricbuzz. “For now, we know this much and we want to keep it that way. There is no injury problem as far as I know. Hopefully, the whole team will be available. Shakib has gone to play County cricket and I am hoping everyone else will be available. From September 9, the whole team is expected to practice in full swing.”
The director elaborated on the significance of Shakib’s participation, especially when juxtaposed against Bangladesh’s recent accolades, such as their historic Test series win over Pakistan in Rawalpindi. “India will appreciate Bangladesh more than ever. They will try to play with a little more planning. They (India) may not see Bangladesh the way they used to before,” Abedin remarked.
Looking ahead to the clash with India, Abedin highlighted the challenges and expectations for Bangladesh. “I think India is a little stronger compared to Bangladesh. So whether we can play with the mentality we had against Pakistan, whether we can keep that going consistently, will be a challenge for us. The pressure we were able to apply against Pakistan may not be as easy against India. There we have to be more consistent and show more patience. But self-confidence is very important,” he added.
For many fans and analysts, this upcoming series is a litmus test to gauge just how far Bangladesh has come in its cricketing journey. “If we can hold it (the pressure), we have the ability to do good.
. Especially the power I saw in our bowling. If we can use it, then we have a good chance. We will dominate more than ever,” Abedin commented.
Another crucial piece of information disclosed by the BCB director pertains to the team’s coaching staff. Chandika Hathurusingha has been confirmed as the head coach for the India series. Hathurusingha, who had a contentious relationship with former BCB president Faruque Ahmed, will travel alongside the team for the entire multi-format series. “The head coach will come, and he will be here in Bangladesh guiding the team against India,” said Abedin.
This assurance comes at a time when there was considerable speculation about the coaching setup, adding yet another layer of excitement to an already fiercely contested series. Further details about the squad and additional staff members are still eagerly awaited by fans and cricket pundits alike.
Rohit Sharma, who has been an immense figure in Indian cricket, is expected to lead the Indian side, making it a challenging but fascinating encounter for the Bangladeshi team. Previous confrontations between the two sides have often triggered debates around strategies and player performances, and this time is expected to be no different, particularly focusing on how the Indian team adapts to Bangladesh’s new-found confidence.
In related news that has kept the cricketing world buzzing, Moeen Ali has decided to retire from international cricket following his omission from England’s white-ball series against Australia. His absence leaves a significant gap in England’s lineup, but their depth should manage to fill it adequately. Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel’s future as a preferred wicketkeeper for India remains uncertain, despite his recent performances equating to some of MS Dhoni’s records.
As for Bangladesh, the spotlight now firmly stays on their ability to translate potential into performance. “The team is keen to not only participate but also make a mark,” Abedin emphasized. The blend of experience and talent in the Bangladeshi side could indeed spell trouble for an Indian side known for its formidable home record.
Regardless of the outcome, this Test series promises to be a remarkable chapter in the ongoing cricketing rivalry between India and Bangladesh. The excitement and anticipation are palpable, as both teams prepare to showcase their best on the field.
