In a strategic move to bolster their squad after a challenging opening loss, Bangladesh cricket has turned to a familiar hero. The team management announced the inclusion of veteran player and former captain Shakib Al Hasan for the upcoming second Test against Sri Lanka. The key motive for Shakib’s return seems to be the team’s determination to claw back from a 0-1 deficit in the series following a staggering defeat by 328 runs in Sylhet.
Notably, the second Test will unfold at Chattogram from March 30, marking an opportune moment for Shakib to make his impactful return. The all-rounder’s comeback is not a mere squad rotation but a tactical reinstatement as he replaces the uncapped Towhi Hridoy. This decisive choice by the selection committee ends the seasoned cricketer’s hiatus from the Test scene since April 2023. Despite his absence from the Test arena, Shakib has maintained his cricketing prowess, actively engaging in the white-ball formats, and showing his mettle in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), even while contending with an eye condition.
Shakib’s health had indeed posed challenges, a retinal issue in his left eye preventing him from participating in the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka. During the BPL 2024 season, his vision challenges initially hindered his batting capabilities, prompting a consultation with an eye specialist in Singapore. However, the medical intervention proved effective as he soon rejoined the tournament, amassing an impressive 255 runs in 11 matches at an explosive strike rate of 158.38. As a bowler, he claimed 17 wickets for the Rangpur Riders, showcasing the well-rounded skill set that makes him invaluable to the team.
Away from the pitch, Shakib has also been venturing onto a different playing field – politics. Recently he joined the Awami League party and contested in the Bangladesh general elections. Successfully securing the Magura constituency, Shakib now adds the title of a member of parliament to his cap of multifaceted achievements.
The Bangladesh lineup has undergone another significant change in preparation for the crucial second Test match. The fast bowling department will witness Hasan Mahmud stepping in to cover for Musfik Hasan, who is currently out with an ankle injury. It is a timely reinforcement for a squad keen on making amends for the prior match and seeking to balance the scales against their Sri Lankan adversaries.
Reflecting on the hurdles faced and the path ahead, the team is set to embark on a mission to level the series, turning to the expertise and experience of Shakib Al Hasan as their lodestar. His re-entry into the team’s dynamic is anticipated to be a game-changer, bringing with it a wave of morale and strategic acumen.
As the final rosters are drawn, Bangladesh’s squad for the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka is as follows: Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), Zakir Hasan, Mahmudul Hasan, Shadman Islam, Litton Das, Mominul Haque, Shakib Al Hasan, Shahadat Hossain, Mehidy Hassan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, Shoriful Islam, Khaled Ahmed, Nahid Rana, and Hasan Mahmud.
With eyes set on redemption and with Shakib’s coveted return, the stage is set for a gripping contest in Chattogram. The cricketing fraternity eagerly awaits to see whether this inclusion will shift the narrative and alter the series’ trajectory in favor of Bangladesh.
