Shakib returns to Bangladesh Test squad after year long absence

DHAKA: Former captain Shakib Al Hasan makes a comeback to the Bangladesh Test squad after a year hiatus from the longest format of the game. Selected for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Chattogram, commencing on March 30, Shakib’s absence was due to an eye condition, which had sidelined him since April 2023. Despite missing Test cricket, Shakib continued to play white-ball cricket, including representing Bangladesh in the ODI World Cup last year and participating in domestic tournaments such as the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) for Rangpur Riders and the Dhaka Premier League List A tournament for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club.

Replacing uncapped Towhid Hridoy in the squad, Shakib’s return coincides with Hasan Mahmud’s inclusion in place of the injured Musfik Hasan in the fast-bowling department. Musfik’s left ankle injury necessitates rehabilitation, providing Mahmud, also uncapped in Tests but experienced in 39 white-ball internationals, an opportunity.

Shakib’s hiatus from Tests stemmed from a retinal condition in his left eye, which also sidelined him from the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka. Seeking medical treatment in Singapore earlier in the year, Shakib highlighted batting difficulties due to the condition, which prompted adjustments in his batting order during the BPL. Despite the challenge, he managed to amass 255 runs and claimed 17 wickets, showcasing his all-round prowess. Rangpur’s journey ended in Qualifier 2 against eventual champions, Fortune Barishal.