Nazmul Hassan Shanto, captain of the Bangladesh team, who was focusing on winning start against South Africa, hailed Shakib Al Hasan not getting a farewell Test at home as unfortunate.
Shakib when talking at the pre-match conference on Sunday at the Sere-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium said that they were still having to work out the team combination in absence of the ace all-rounder ahead of the first Test against South Africa.
Shakib, who was initially named in the squad for the first Test and was almost on his way to return to Bangladesh from the USA, was advised not to return by the government 'over security issues'.
Shakib, the former Awami League lawmaker went back to USA from Dubai rather to fly for Bangladesh on Wednesday night. The BCB selection committee then announced a replacement in the form of left-arm spinner Hasan Murad.
Replying to the query about his opinion regarding the whole situation, Shanto said, "Very unfortunate (Shakib not getting a farewell Test at home). It should have been and we would have been happy if it was his farewell Test. We all know why he is unable to come. I think everybody in the team feels that this thing (Shakib's farewell) is pending. But I don't want to dwell any further on this issue a day before a Test match.”
"Of course he was in our plans. He is one of the best players in the world, not just in Bangladesh," Shanto revealed.
"To be honest, due to his absence we are having trouble finding the combination and It will take time,” said Shanto.
Shanto said that replacing Shakib was going to be tough. He said Mehidy Hasan Miraz has shown he can step up but it would take him some time.
"It is hard to match Shakib, especially for the captain. He would usually allow us to play the extra batter or bowler. Now the No. 7 becomes a crucial spot. We don't have anyone exactly like Shakib Bhai but Miraz can be a very good option. Miraz has been bowling and batting superbly. There are more responsibilities, which Miraz is prepared for.”
Uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad replaced Shakib in the squad for the first Test. Shanto said Murad deserved the call-up, and expressed confidence in his spin attack.
"We have four quality spinners in the side. Hasan Murad has an outstanding first-class record. He bowls well in all types of wickets. It is a deserving selection. Nayeem couldn't break into the side despite playing well recently. Whether we pick three or four spinners tomorrow, they are all capable. Regardless of our combination, we will give our best."
