Shakib Al Hasan could play in Bangladesh’s T20I series against Zimbabwe. According to chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain, it’s going to start from next month.
Shakib-al-Hassan might also feature in a couple of Dhaka Premier League matches as part of his return to white-ball cricket. “We have communicated with him [Shakib],” Ashraf said.
Bangladesh Announced Shakib’s T20I Return
“He is expected to arrive in Dhaka at the end of this month. He will possibly play one or two DPL matches. Afterward, he will get involved with team management. There he can do his training on cricketing skills as per the desire of team management.
We will want him to play a couple of matches in the series. We will announce the team on April 28 and by that time, you will get a clear picture of his availability.”
Shakib had been on a break due to an eye condition and a finger injury after the 2023 ODI World Cup ended last November and returned to international cricket in the Chattogram Test against Sri Lanka earlier this month.
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New Squad Updates for Training Sessions
On Tuesday, Bangladesh announced a 17-man preparatory squad that will train for three days in Chattogram from April 26. The group doesn’t include Shakib or Mustafizur Rahman. Because he’s playing for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL until May 1.
Notably absent from the lineup are Shakib and Mustafizur Rahman, the latter engaged with the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL until May 1. Ashraf indicated that Mustafizur would also sit out the inaugural T20I against Zimbabwe on May 3 in Chattogram.
Among the trainees is Mohammad Saifuddin, marking his return following an extended hiatus due to injury. Saifuddin’s last appearance for Bangladesh was shortly before the 2022 T20 World Cup, with his comeback witnessed in this season’s BPL, where he contributed to Fortune Barishal‘s championship victory.
“Undoubtedly, Saifuddin shows immense promise, and barring injury, could accumulate further international exposure,” Ashraf remarked. “He displays prowess in batting but faces stiff competition in bowling. Thus, the Zimbabwe series presents an ideal opportunity for him to rediscover his rhythm as we hold considerable interest in his progress.”
Bangladesh is scheduled to contest the first trio of T20Is against Zimbabwe in Chattogram on May 3, 5, and 7, with the concluding two fixtures set to take place in Dhaka on May 10 and 12.
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About the Author
Zartash Zulfiqar is a passionate cricket writer with a love for cricket that shines through in every word. From match analyses to player profiles, she delivers insightful commentary that resonates with fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the latest from the world of cricket, brought to you by Zartash.
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