The Rangpur Riders’ lineup for the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) in Dhaka has experienced a significant setback as they will be without the veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan. Shakib, aged 36, is poised to miss the initial matches in Dhaka, host of the league’s 10th season, as he faces an eye condition that needs medical attention, according to a report by Cricbuzz. The situation calls for Shakib to travel to Singapore for an eye examination on Sunday, January 21.
As the Bangladesh Premier League commenced its 2024 season, Shakib was seen in action during the Rangpur Riders’ first match and, as it stands, their only game thus far. The team management has its hopes pinned on Shakib’s timely recovery for the upcoming Sylhet leg of the league. Ishtiaque Sadeque, the Riders’ chief executive officer, expressed his anticipation to Cricbuzz: “He (Shakib) is leaving for Sylhet today, and we are expecting him to be available during the Sylhet phase if he recovers from his eye problem. Let’s hope for the best. But if that is not the case, we have to play with our available resources.”
The Rangpur Riders’ captain, Nurul Hasan, confirmed Shakib’s difficulty with his vision, stating, “He (Shakib) has been struggling with an eyesight problem for some time now. I think he has been in regular contact with the doctors. The doctors are the ones who can say at what stage the problem is now.” This revelation followed their defeat by Fortune Barisal.
The dilemma with Shakib’s eyesight is not a new development, as it reportedly affected him during the ODI World Cup in 2023. He also sought medical advice in London through an eye check-up recently. The health of athletes, especially those involved in a sport requiring precise hand-eye coordination like cricket, is crucial, and eye complications can severely impact performance and safety on the field.
The 10th edition of the BPL tournament was inaugurated on January 19 at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. Thus far, the venue has hosted all four matches played in the tournament, with more fixtures scheduled in the city. The Rangpur Riders are set to reappear in Dhaka for a clash with the Sylhet Strikers at the Shere Bangla National Stadium on January 23. It is noteworthy that the Sylhet leg is scheduled to commence on January 26, featuring the Riders against the Khulna Tigers in the leg opener.
Shakib’s absence will indeed be felt by the Riders, as he is not only a pivotal figure in their squad but also a highly respected player internationally. His expertise has always been a key factor for the team, and losing a player of his caliber could shift the dynamics of any match. The Riders will now have to rely more on other squad members to fill the void left by his departure and maintain their competitive edge in the high-stakes tournament.
As the Bangladesh Premier League continues, fans and fellow cricketers wait with bated breath for updates on Shakib’s condition. His health and quick recovery are paramount not only for his team’s prospects in the tournament but also for his future in the sport. The Rangpur Riders, meanwhile, must adapt and focus on the upcoming challenges, showcasing the depth and resilience of their team. Will they be able to withstand the pressure and rise in the ranks without their star all-rounder, or will Shakib’s absence prove too great a hurdle? The coming days in the BPL will reveal the outcome.
