Gazi Ashraf Hossain who is currently the chief selector of the Bangladesh cricket team confirmed on Monday that all-rounder star player Shakib Al Hasan will be available for all the Test Matches scheduled for the rest of this year (2024). Bangladesh will play eight Test matches by the end of the year, starting with the two-match Test series against Pakistan. Following the Pakistan series, Bangladesh is scheduled to a two-match Test series against India, South Africa, and the West Indies respectively.
Shakib’s participation was not confirmed as he already hinted that he might only commit to the Pakistan series and was undecided about playing against India. However, in recent news, Ashraf has clarified that Shakib has confirmed his availability to management for all the upcoming Test Matches and practice sessions. Shakib Al Hasan in expected to join the national team around August 14 or 15.
“Probably at the end of July, we talked to Shakib and discussed his fitness with me. During the Zimbabwe series, we wanted to understand his short-term plans. We have a busy schedule with eight Test matches by December. He assured us he would play all the Tests and attend all practice sessions before each series. He is expected to join the team around August 14 or 15,” Ashraf told reporters at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Monday.
Shakib’s selection was a matter of discussion considering he played only four of the eight Tests Bangladesh played in the last two years. Furthermore, while his teammates have had red-ball practice at home, the ace all-rounder will join the squad from Canada after playing in the Global T20 League. He has also had an issue with his eye condition, which prompted doubts about whether he was being picked as an all-rounder or just a bowler.
“I haven’t received any updates from our medical team regarding his eyes. Globally, Shakib is one of the best all-rounders for the past 25 (15) years and I maintain that opinion. I cannot dare to consider him only as a bowler,” he said. “The way he has been able to take himself to new heights and his adjustability to different formats and his record against Pakistan are all considered for his inclusion,” he added.
Security concerns have also surrounded Shakib’s participation, given the political unrest in Bangladesh. Shakib is an active politician, having been elected as a member of Parliament under the Awami League banner in the last general elections. The recent dissolution of parliament and the escape of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from the country has highlighted these concerns. Several lawmakers from the ruling party have been attacked recently, raising questions about Shakib’s ability to return home safely.
“In practice sessions, there are security issues regarding every player or official. That has to be ensured in light of current circumstances because Shakib is a top player in Bangladesh. In terms of selection, we had to think of many things because he iss a political person. But his selection was done because of his talent. We have been open regarding his talent and we do that for every player and we will do that in the future if we remain in the selection panel,” Ashraf said.
With these assurances, Bangladesh’s cricket fans can look forward to seeing Shakib in action throughout what promises to be a challenging and exciting year of the Test series.
