Uncertainty has swirled around the participation of Shakib Al Hasan in the upcoming Afghanistan series, scheduled to commence in the UAE on 6 November.
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruq Ahmed initially stated that Shakib would be available.
However, today he clarified that due to a lack of sufficient practice, Shakib will not be playing in the series.
The series against Afghanistan will span three ODIs, beginning on 6 November in Sharjah, with the remaining matches slated for 9 and 11 November.
The Bangladesh squad is set to depart from Dhaka on 3 November, with the final team lineup expected to be announced in the coming days.
Speaking to journalists in Chattogram on 31 October, Faruq Ahmed noted, “Shakib was attempting to join but was unable to do so. He missed the Test match, and I spoke with him about this matter. He has not been practising either, so he will need more time. Though a final decision has yet to be reached, it seems unlikely he will be able to participate in this series.”
In response to questions, Faruq added, “This is largely due to his mental readiness, as well as a T10 tournament he is committed to, for which he is yet to receive a No Objection Certificate from us. After this series, we have three ODIs against the West Indies and then the Champions Trophy. I believe he will sit out this tour."
The BCB president also hinted that while Shakib will not participate in the Afghanistan series, he may join the squad for the West Indies tour, pending his fitness status. Faruq said, “If he is fit, Shakib will play in the West Indies series.”
With the opening match set for 6 November, the Bangladesh team is preparing for this key encounter, even as fans lament the absence of Shakib Al Hasan from the line-up.
