On Tuesday, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) revealed that Shakib Al Hasan is unlikely to feature in all the matches of the upcoming five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, set to take place from May 3 to May 12.
The BCB announced a 17-member squad for the preparation of the Zimbabwe series, which notably excluded Shakib and Mustafizur Rahman, currently engaged with the Chennai Super Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League.
Gazi Ashraf Hossain, BCB’s chief selector, informed reporters that Shakib, presently in the USA, is anticipated to return by the end of this month.
There’s a likelihood that he will participate in a couple of games in the ongoing Dhaka Premier League for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Cricket Club.
This decision aligns with Shakib’s desire to engage in domestic matches for comprehensive preparation ahead of his international commitments.
“We have communicated with him (Shakib), and the outcome is that he is expected to come at the end of this month, and there is a possibility he will play DPL in one or two games and later will get involved with the team management,” Ashraf stated.
He further added, “We will announce the team on April 28, and by that time, you will get a clear picture of how many matches he is available for.”
Ashraf emphasized the importance of a gradual return for Shakib, considering factors like fatigue from travel and acclimatization to local conditions.
He expressed confidence in Shakib’s ability to integrate smoothly with the team upon his return.
Regarding Mustafizur Rahman, Ashraf mentioned that the left-arm pacer will miss the opening game of the Zimbabwe series due to his IPL commitments.
Mustafizur is expected to undergo medical screening upon his return on May 2.
Ashraf also addressed the inclusion of Soumya Sarkar, who is recuperating from a knee injury sustained during a recent match against Sri Lanka.
While Sarkar’s fitness remains a concern, the management is hopeful of his participation, pending evaluation by the team’s strength and conditioning coach.
The squad’s composition reflects a strategic approach, with an eye on the upcoming World Cup.
Ashraf emphasized the significance of the series against Zimbabwe and expressed optimism about the return of players like Saifuddin, highlighting the all-rounder’s potential impact following his recovery from injury.
Squad for Preparation Camp:
| Player Name |
|---|
| Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain) |
| Litton Das |
| Tanzid Hasan Tamim |
| Towhid Hridoy |
| Mahmudullah |
| Jaker Ali Anik |
| Mahedi Hasan |
| Rishad Hossain |
| Taskin Ahmed |
| Shoriful Islam |
| Tanzim Hasan Sakib |
| Parvez Hossain Emon |
| Tanvir Islam |
| Afif Hossain |
| Hasan Mahmud |
| Mohammad Saifuddin |
| Soumya Sarkar |
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