Bangladesh’s chief selector, Gazi Ashraf Hossain, has confirmed that Shakib Al Hasan will participate in all the remaining Test matches of the 2024 World Test Championship (WTC).
Shakib, one of Bangladesh’s most experienced all-rounders, had previously left his availability uncertain, but recent discussions have clarified his commitment.
Ahead of the WTC series against Pakistan, Hossain revealed that he had a conversation with Shakib at the end of July regarding his fitness and readiness for the upcoming matches. Shakib assured the team of his availability for all the Tests and confirmed his active participation in the practice sessions before each series.
Bangladesh is slated to play eight crucial Test matches in 2024, divided into four two-match series against Pakistan, India, South Africa, and the West Indies. All these games are vital components of the ongoing WTC cycle.
Shakib has so far appeared in only one Test match during the current WTC cycle. Initially, he had not committed to playing beyond the Pakistan series.
In July, Shakib mentioned that his focus was on the upcoming international matches and the series against Pakistan, and he did not plan beyond that at the time, as he prepared for his engagements in the Major League Cricket and Global T20 League in Canada.
However, Shakib has now been included in the squad for the Pakistan series and is expected to play a key role as an all-rounder. Hossain emphasized Shakib’s significance to the team, stating that Shakib has been one of the world’s top all-rounders for years, and he continues to hold that view. He is not just a bowler but brings a lot more to the table.
Ensuring Shakib’s full participation in all practice sessions was a crucial factor in his selection. Hossain confirmed that Shakib would join the team in Pakistan around August 14 or 15 to begin preparations.
The WTC series against Pakistan is set to start on August 21, with the second Test beginning on August 30. Shakib’s inclusion is expected to bolster Bangladesh’s chances as they aim for a strong performance in the WTC.
