Bangladesh chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain has revealed that veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has made himself available for all the remaining Test matches in the year 2024. Bangladesh is set to play eight Test matches in the remainder of this year, beginning with the two-match Test series against Pakistan. Following the Pakistan series, Bangladesh will be competing in a two-match Test series against India, South Africa, and West Indies.
Gazi Ashraf Hossain on Shakib Al Hasan
Earlier, Shakib gave hints that he has not yet decided if he will play against India as he was just planning till the two-match Test series against Pakistan. However, Ashraf has ensured his availability.
"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 on Monday.
Shakib's selection was debated because he only appeared in four of Bangladesh's eight Test matches over the past two years. Besides, while his partners have had red-ball practice at home, the legendary all-rounder will join the crew from Canada after playing in the Global T20 League. He also has been dealing with his eye conditions, which provoked questions whether he was being picked as an all-rounder or simply 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. 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. It was important to know whether he will be available in all the practice sessions before series and that was a criterion for selection from our point of view. We were supposed to go [to Pakistan] a bit later. He will probably reach the side on 14th or 15th and practice with the team," Ashraf Hossain said.
Security issue on Shakib
Ashraf went on to say that Shakib's security was also a concern because of the country's unrest and he was a member of parliament under the Awami League banner in the most recent general election. After the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left the country on August 5, the parliament was dissolved. Since several members of the ruling party had recently been attacked, which raised concern about whether he could return home.
"In practice sessions, there are security issues regarding every player or official. That definitely 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 concluded.
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