New Delhi: Former captain of the Bangladesh cricket team, Shakib Al Hasan, has been named in the squad for the forthcoming Test series against South Africa, signifying his departure from Test cricket. Selector Hannan Sarkar has confirmed Shakib's inclusion in the team following clearance from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
"Shakib has expressed his wish to play his last Test match at home, a desire that was taken into consideration by both the government and the BCB. Following the BCB's approval, Shakib was added to the squad," Sarkar stated, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
Shakib is among the four spin-bowling options in the team, alongside Taijul Islam, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Nayeem Hasan. The team's composition largely reflects that of recent tours to Pakistan and India, with the notable exception of fast bowler Khaled Ahmed, who participated in the Kanpur match but only bowled four overs.
The opening pair of Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan will remain the same from the previous four Tests, with Mahmudul Hasan Joy serving as a reserve. Mominul Haque and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto are expected to play at the No. 3 and 4 positions, with Mominul Haque potentially scoring a century at No. 3. The middle order will be reinforced by Shakib, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das, and Mehidy, creating a formidable batting lineup. Taijul is considered a preferred choice for a third seamer in domestic conditions, with Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud expected to lead the pace attack, though Nahid Rana's speed remains a viable option.
The series against South Africa consists of two Tests, with the first match scheduled to take place in Mirpur from October 21 and the second in Chattogram from October 29. This series marks the inaugural assignment under interim coach Phil Simmons, who joined the team shortly after the dismissal of Chandika Hathurusinghe for disciplinary reasons.
Currently, Bangladesh is ranked seventh on the World Test Championship (WTC) points table, following a 2-0 series win in Pakistan and a 2-0 series defeat in India. South Africa, in contrast, occupies the fifth position in the WTC standings, having recently won a two-Test series 1-0 in the West Indies in August.
