The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is uncertain about Shakib Al Hasan’s participation in the upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan, set to begin on August 21, 2024, in Rawalpindi. Shakib Al Hasan, currently playing in the Global T20 Canada, had shown interest in joining the series and planned to return to Bangladesh from the USA after his No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the BCB expires on August 12.
Initially, the plan was for Shakib to either return to Bangladesh or travel directly to Pakistan from Canada to prepare for the Tests. However, his role as an MP in the Awami League government, which recently collapsed following a student protest on August 5, has made his return complicated due to the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh.
A recent report by the Daily Star highlights concerns over Shakib Al Hasan’s availability, pointing out that he has been playing continuous T20 matches since May. Despite his experience in longer formats, doubts linger about his readiness to meet the physical demands of Test cricket.
BCB officials have had difficulty contacting Shakib amid the turmoil and are consulting with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and head coach Chandika Hathurusingha before finalizing the squad. The selectors have prepared an 18-member preliminary squad, including Shakib and Taskin Ahmed, and will announce the final 15-member squad after further discussions. The Test series will conclude with the second match in Karachi on August 30.
