Bangladesh chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain said on Monday that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is available for all the Test matches in 2024, reports Cricbuzz.
Bangladesh are scheduled to play eight Test matches in the remainder of the year that starts with the two-match Test series against Pakistan. Following the Pakistan series, Bangladesh are scheduled to two-match Test series against India, South Africa and West Indies respectively.
Shakib had earlier hinted that he is yet to decide whether he'd play against India as he was only planning till the two-match Test series against Pakistan. Ashraf though, begs to differ.
"Probably at the end of July we talked to Shakib and there were discussions with me regarding his fitness. 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 that 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 in the city 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 conditions, which prompted doubts whether he was being picked as an all-rounder or just a bowler.
Shakib available for all remaining Tests this year, says Ashraf
FE Team | Published: August 12, 2024 22:32:55
Shakib available for all remaining Tests this year, says Ashraf
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