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Gazi Ashraf Hossain, the chief selector of Bangladesh, has confirmed that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will be available for all Test matches throughout 2024. Hossain mentioned that Shakib has committed to participating in every Test and will be present at all practice sessions before each series.
Bangladesh’s upcoming fixtures include a two-match Test series against Pakistan, starting in Rawalpindi on August 21. For this series, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25, the selectors have named a 16-member squad, with Shakib Al Hasan included.
The national team has eight Test matches remaining this year. After the Pakistan series, Bangladesh will take on India in a two-match series, followed by fixtures against South Africa and the West Indies.
Wanted To Understand Shakib Al Hasan’s Short-Term Plans – Gazi Ashraf Hossain
Previously, Shakib Al Hasan had suggested that he might make a decision regarding his participation in the series against India at a later date. However, Gazi Ashraf Hossain has now confirmed that Shakib has pledged to play in all eight Test matches scheduled for this year. Hossain also mentioned that Shakib is expected to rejoin the team around August 14 or 15.
“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,” Ashraf told reporters at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Monday, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
“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,” he added.
In the past two years, Shakib has featured in only four of Bangladesh’s eight Test matches. The experienced all-rounder is set to rejoin the team after participating in the Global T20 League in Canada. His recent eye issues have led to speculation about whether he will be utilized as an all-rounder or focus solely on bowling in the forthcoming matches.
Haven’t Received Any Updates From Medical Team – Gazi Ashraf Hossain
Gazi Ashraf Hossain mentioned that he has not received any recent medical updates regarding Shakib’s eye condition. He lauded Shakib Al Hasan as one of the premier all-rounders of the past 15 years. According to Hossain, Shakib’s versatility across formats and his strong record against Pakistan were crucial factors in his selection.
“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,” Hossain 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.
