Bangladesh national cricket team chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain clarified that Shakib Al Hasan's performance and experience were considered in his selection for the forthcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan.
The Tigers departed for Lahore today, four days earlier than the scheduled departure due to security reasons.听
They will practice at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from August 14-16 before moving to Rawalpindi, the venue of the first Test, on August 17. The first Test begins on August 21, and the second Test is on August 30 in Karachi.
It was earlier reported that Shakib might not take part in the series against Pakistan, but those speculations proved to be false as the all-rounder was named in the 16-member squad announced for the tour on Sunday.
Shakib's availability in Tests has been a constant talking point before every series for some time now, but this time the discussions were louder due to the recent political developments in the country.
After Shiekh Hasina resigned as prime minister on August 5, the president dissolved the parliament, where Shakib was a member from the then ruling Awami League party.
Many members of parliament of the Awami League government have fled the country, adding to the doubts over Shakib's availability for the Pakistan Tests.
Shakib, who is now in the USA with his family, is expected to join the side directly in Pakistan.
鈥極f course we are worried about the current situation. We have to ensure his safety. Shakib Al Hasan is a top player in Bangladesh. He is a political figure. But basically, considering his performance, he was selected,鈥� Ashraf told reporters on Monday.
鈥楬is performance spoke about him. His ability to adapt to different versions of cricket and different conditions has been unmatched. His record against Pakistan has also been superb, and there is no denial fact here.鈥�
Ashraf also made it clear that the ace all-rounder would be available for all eight remaining Tests for Bangladesh in 2024.
After the two Tests against Pakistan, the Tigers have red-ball assignments against India, South Africa, and the West Indies this year.
鈥榃e have eight Tests scheduled this year, which will conclude in the West Indies in December. He [Shakib] will be available for all of them,鈥� said Ashraf.
While Shakib had ensured his availability for all upcoming series prior to the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, the selectors spoke with him again to reconfirm after the recent events in the country.
鈥業 spoke with Shakib probably at the end of July, and there were discussions regarding his fitness. During the Zimbabwe series [in May], we [selectors] wanted to know his short-term plan as we have a lot of Test matches lined up till December, eight in total. He had assured us that he would be available. But in the current scenario, I had to ask him again.
鈥業t was also important for us to know whether he will be available for the practice sessions before every series. That was a criterion for selection from our point of view,鈥� he added.
Given the current situation, Ashraf emphasised that ensuring the security of Shakib and all other players and support staff is a priority for the board.
鈥業n practice sessions, there are security concerns regarding every player or official. Their security has to be ensured in the current circumstances.鈥�
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