Image Source: BCB
[Saba Sports News] Shakib Al Hasan has decided not to participate in the forthcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, as announced by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on February 22. This decision follows Shakib’s exclusion from the white-ball series with Sri Lanka.
BCB’s cricket operation chairman, Jalal Yunus, mentioned that Shakib’s break from cricket includes the Test series, which is a part of the ICC World Test Championship’s third cycle.
Despite his impressive performance in the Bangladesh Premier League, scoring 249 runs across 11 matches, Shakib is taking a break from international play.
Yunus explained, “Shakib has expressed his desire for a break from the series against Sri Lanka, choosing to step back from international cricket momentarily. He appears physically fit, but it seems he prefers a break to return to international cricket in top condition.”
The cricket series with Sri Lanka, encompassing T20 Internationals, ODIs, and Tests, is set to begin on March 4 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. Shakib is speculated to play in the Dhaka Premier League starting March 9 for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club, aiming to refine his batting before making an international comeback.
In related news, former Bangladesh coach Dav Whatmore has confidence in Mahmudullah’s T20I return. Mahmudullah, returning to the T20I squad after last playing in 2022, has been selected based on his World Cup performance and his current Bangladesh Premier League showings.
Whatmore praised Mahmudullah’s power-hitting capability, essential for T20 cricket, and suggested his potential roles in the batting lineup. He also commended Mahmudullah’s batting technique improvements, particularly his ability to maintain a steady head, contributing to his recent successes. Whatmore views Mahmudullah’s experience as a significant advantage for the Bangladesh T20I team, blending power and experience in a format that values both.