Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu has confirmed on Monday that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will be available for all eight remaining Tests for Bangladesh in 2024.
Despite earlier reports from certain media outlets suggesting that Shakib might miss Bangladesh's upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan, these speculations have been proven false. The all-rounder has been named in the 16-member squad for the tour, announced on Sunday.
Following the two Tests against Pakistan, the Tigers have further red-ball commitments against India, South Africa, and the West Indies this year. Shakib's availability for Tests has been a recurring topic of discussion before every series for some time now. This time, the conversations were more intense due to recent political developments in the country.
After Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister on August 5, the president dissolved the parliament, where Shakib was a member of the then ruling Awami League party. Many members of the Awami League government have fled the country, raising doubts about Shakib's availability for the Pakistan Tests. However, the chief selector dispelled all doubts, confirming that the 37-year-old has committed to playing red-ball cricket until the end of this year.
"We have eight Tests scheduled this year, concluding in the West Indies in December. Shakib will be available for all of them," Lipu told the media in Mirpur on Monday. While Shakib had assured his availability for all upcoming series before the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, the selectors reconfirmed with him following the recent events in the country.
"I spoke with Shakib probably at the end of July, and we discussed his fitness. During the Zimbabwe series in May, we wanted to know his short-term plan as we have many Test matches lined up until December, eight in total. He assured us of his availability. But given the current scenario, I had to ask him again," Lipu explained.
"It was also important for us to know whether he would be available for the practice sessions before every series. That was a criterion for selection from our point of view," the chief selector added.
In the current circumstances, ensuring the security of Shakib and all other players and support staff is also a significant concern for the board, according to Lipu. "In practice sessions, there are security concerns regarding every player
or official. Their security definitely has to be ensured in the current circumstances."
Lipu also emphasised that Shakib's selection was based solely on his performances. "Outside of sports, he was also a political figure. But he was selected because of his merit. We have considered his talent. In the future too, we will continue to value merit." The Bangladesh team departed for Pakistan on Monday.
