Taskin Ahmed has formally requested not to be considered for Test cricket.
Bangladesh pace bowler Taskin Ahmed is set to step away from Test cricket due to an ongoing shoulder injury, focusing his attention on white-ball cricket instead.
Cricpulse reports that Taskin has formally communicated his decision to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) through a letter, awaiting their response. In the letter, Taskin emphasized his desire to contribute more effectively in white-ball formats and expressed confidence that this shift would afford him ample time for recovery from the shoulder injury.
A senior BCB official confirmed the news, stating, “He (Taskin) had sent a letter stating that he does not want to play longer-version cricket. After the game [of the ongoing BPL] is over, we will sit with him in this regard,” as mentioned by BCB cricket operation chairman Jalal Yunus to Cricpulse
The decision is pending further discussions, involving head coach Chandika Hathurusingha. Hathurusingha is aware of the development and has reportedly inquired with Taskin about the possibility of reconsideration.
BCB’s chief selector, Minhajul Abedin, indicated that a decision on Taskin’s request would involve consultation with the board’s physicians to assess the extent of his injury. “He [Taskin] is our across-format contracted player. We have to talk with our doctors and get a report on his injury status and later can make a decision in this regard,” he said.
Taskin, who suffered a shoulder tear during the World Cup, has been engaged in rehabilitation while participating in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League for Durdanto Dhaka.
Taskin remains reluctant to undergo surgery for his shoulder injury, fearing an extended period away from cricket for full recovery.
Despite seeking permission to skip the Zimbabwe series, Taskin faced challenges in securing approval from the board.
In the past, Taskin faced setbacks in participating in the Indian Premier League due to BCB’s concerns about his injury. His case draws parallels with fellow Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who also opted out of red-ball cricket to focus on the white-ball format.
The BCB’s stance on Taskin’s request is yet to be determined, as discussions involving key stakeholders are expected in the coming days.
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