Shakib Al Hasan is not expected to participate in all T20Is against Zimbabwe

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced on Tuesday that Shakib Al Hasan is unlikely to participate in all the matches of the upcoming five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, which is scheduled to take place from May 3 to May 12.

Despite being a key player, Shakib was not included in the 17-member squad announced by BCB for the preparation of the Zimbabwe series. Mustafizur Rahman, who is currently playing for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League, was also not included in the squad.

Gazi Ashraf Hossain, the chief selector of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), has informed the media that Shakib Al Hasan, who is currently in the USA, is anticipated to return by the end of this month. Shakib is likely to participate in a couple of matches for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Cricket Club in the ongoing Dhaka Premier League upon his return. This decision is part of his preparation to handle the demands of international cricket more effectively.

“We have been in contact with him (Shakib), and the plan is for him to return by the end of this month. There’s a possibility that he will play one or two matches in the DPL and then join the team management for practice sessions to hone his cricketing skills, as per the team’s and his own requirements. Later, we definitely want him to play a couple of matches towards the end of the five-match T20I series,” stated Ashraf.

“We will finalize the team selection on April 28, which will give us a clearer picture of Shakib’s availability for the matches,” he stated.

“Upon his return, Shakib will need to follow a process. Coming back from abroad, he will naturally be fatigued from the journey and will need to acclimatize to the weather. It will be important for him to reintegrate with the Bangladesh team quickly, and we will ensure that he receives the necessary support,” Ashraf explained, expressing confidence that Shakib’s reintegration into the team will not pose a challenge.

“Shakib is experienced in team dynamics and knows how to fit in seamlessly. With five matches against Zimbabwe and later a three-match T20 series in America, there are plenty of opportunities for him to play and prepare for the upcoming World Cup,” he added.

Ashraf mentioned that Mustafizur will sit out the initial match of the Zimbabwe series. After wrapping up his last game for the season with Punjab Kings in Chennai on May 1, the left-arm pacer is anticipated to return on May 2.

“Mustafizur won’t be ready for the first match. Upon his arrival, he will undergo medical screenings, and then we’ll assess his condition,” Ashraf stated.

Additionally, Ashraf indicated that Bangladesh’s management will wait until the last moment for Soumya Sarkar, as they’ve included him in the squad despite his ongoing recovery.

Sarkar suffered a knee injury during the third ODI against Sri Lanka when he collided with an advertising board while attempting to prevent a boundary. Taijul injured his knee while fielding in the opening Test of the series while attempting to save a run. Although he played the second Test, he later experienced discomfort in his knee, leading to his rehabilitation.

“Ashraf noted that Soumya Sarkar is still on the path to full recovery from his injury. Our strength and conditioning coach will closely monitor his progress. We hope to include him in the team for tactical discussions,” Ashraf explained.

“We are required by the ICC to finalize the team by May 1, unless an extension is granted. This squad will essentially be our World Cup team, barring any unforeseen circumstances like injuries. The team selected will closely resemble our final World Cup squad.

The squad includes the return of Saifuddin, among others. Ashraf expressed his excitement about the pace bowling all-rounder’s return to form during the series against Zimbabwe. Saifuddin is back after a lengthy injury layoff.

“Saifuddin is a talented player. If he can stay clear of injuries, he will gain valuable international experience. However, performance is crucial, and while he excels in batting, he faces tough competition in bowling. The Zimbabwe series is a great opportunity for him to regain his form, as we have high hopes for him,” Ashraf stated.

Squad for Preparation Camp: Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), Litton Das, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanvir Islam, Afif Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Mohammad Saifuddin, and Soumya Sarkar.