Bangladesh’s cricket captain expressed confidence on Tuesday that star allrounder Shakib Al Hasan will perform at his best in a Test against Pakistan this week, despite protests over his involvement in politics. Shakib, aged 37, was a member of the now dissolved Bangladesh parliament under ex-premier Sheikh Hasina, who recently fled the country amidst mass demonstrations. The interim government granted permission last week for Shakib to participate in the two Tests against Pakistan, with the first match commencing on Wednesday.
“He has been playing this game for a long time, so he understands his role and how to prepare himself. I am not concerned about his political career,” stated Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto during a press conference.
When asked if the political turmoil would impact Shakib’s performance, Shanto responded, “I don’t believe so because he is a professional cricketer, and we all view him as such, to be honest.” He added, “I hope he will deliver something extraordinary in this series.”
Shakib is a crucial allrounder for Bangladesh, boasting 4,505 runs in 67 Tests and 237 wickets as a spinner — the highest among any Bangladeshi bowler in Test cricket.
Protests erupted in Dhaka over Shakib’s inclusion in the team, with former Bangladesh Cricket Board member Rafiqul Islam criticizing him for remaining silent while protesters clashed with security forces.
Shakib joined the squad in Pakistan last week after participating in the Global T20 League in Canada, where Bangladeshis also voiced their discontent towards him.
The unrest in Dhaka disrupted the team’s practice sessions, but the Pakistan Cricket Board extended an invitation for the tourists to arrive four days early to compensate for their lack of preparation.
Shanto remained hopeful that Bangladesh could improve their poor Test record against Pakistan, having lost 12 of the last 13 Tests with just one draw. “We have a well-rounded team, and I believe we can produce some exceptional cricket,” he said. “Changing the record won’t be easy, but we have faith that we can achieve something special.”
The Rawalpindi Test faces a threat from inclement weather, as rain is forecasted on all five days. The second Test will also take place at the same venue starting from August 30.
(This story has been published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by NDTV staff, except for the headline.)
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