Bangladesh‘s legendary all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, will not participate in the upcoming first Test against South Africa, scheduled to take place at the Sher-E-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka on October 21.
Shakib Al Hasan’s absence from the 1st Test against South Africa
This Test match was meant to be Shakib’s farewell game, as he had announced his retirement from Test cricket in September. Despite his plans to bid adieu to the format in front of his home fans, The 37-year-old has opted out due to the intense protests currently happening in Bangladesh, which have raised concerns about his safety. Shakib had initially expressed his desire to play one last Test, asking his fans to be present, but due to the escalating situation, he will now miss the opportunity to have a grand farewell at home.
Replacement announced: A new chapter for Bangladesh cricket
In light of Shakib’s unavailability, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has selected left-arm spinner Hasan Murad as his replacement for the first Test against South Africa. Murad, although uncapped at the Test level, has showcased immense potential in domestic cricket. Since his debut in 2021, Murad has taken 136 wickets in just 30 first-class matches, earning him a spot in Bangladesh’s Test squad. He also represented the nation in the Asian Games 2023, featuring in two T20I matches. Murad’s selection marks a new chapter for Bangladesh cricket as they look to future talent to fill the shoes of an experienced all-rounder like Shakib.
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BCB acknowledges legacy but stresses the need for a balanced team
While acknowledging Shakib’s immense contributions to Bangladesh cricket, the BCB admitted that there is currently no player in the squad who can match his calibre with both bat and ball. Shakib’s absence leaves a significant void, not only in terms of his cricketing skills but also his experience and leadership. However, the BCB remains hopeful that the inclusion of Hasan Murad will provide the necessary support to the team, particularly in the spin department, as they face a formidable South African side. With Murad’s first-class experience and promising talent, the board believes that Bangladesh can remain competitive in the two-match Test series.
“We have been informed that Shakib is unavailable for the first Test. He is at the end of his Test career but along with his experience, we still do not have someone of that calibre with both bat and the ball to replace him. However, Hasan Murad has performed consistently in first class cricket and has been in our system. He will lend balance to our bowling, especially in home conditions. We believe he has the potential to deliver at this level,” BCB chairman said in a statement.