Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal Available for Champions Trophy, Says BCB President

Despite facing several challenges, including political issues that previously prevented Shakib from returning to the country, the veteran all-rounder remains in the mix for the prestigious event. Moreover, Shakib's bowling action had recently come under scrutiny, prompting the need for clearance to bowl in both international and domestic competitions. This has added to the speculation surrounding his readiness to play.

Shakib's Situation: No New Developments

Faruque clarified that there were no significant updates regarding Shakib's situation, which continues to be a "separate issue." The BCB President explained that Shakib's absence from the recent West Indies tour was largely due to mental health concerns, and it was up to the player to decide whether he would participate in domestic events like the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Faruque further mentioned that he had no current information on Shakib's status.

"Shakib’s situation is a completely different matter. He was not mentally prepared to play in the West Indies series, and now it is entirely up to him to decide whether he will play in the BPL or what his plans are. I don’t have any updates on him," Faruque explained.

Shakib's participation in the Champions Trophy remains uncertain, but his availability for selection hinges on his personal decision and fitness, as well as his clearance to bowl.

Tamim Iqbal's Return to Form

On the other hand, Tamim Iqbal, who had taken a seven-month break from international cricket, has been in strong form, impressing fans and selectors alike. The opening batsman recently returned to action with the ongoing National Cricket League (NCL) T20 and has already scored two half-centuries, indicating that he still has plenty to offer at the highest level.

Faruque confirmed that Tamim is available for selection, emphasizing that as long as a player has not officially retired, they remain eligible for national duty. He pointed out that the selection committee would consult with the player to determine their readiness for the tournament.

"Any player who hasn’t retired is definitely available for selection for the Champions Trophy. As for Tamim, he has shown that he is in good form, and if the selectors think he is needed, they will consult him," said Faruque.

Tamim’s performances in domestic cricket suggest that he is in prime condition, and with the Champions Trophy fast approaching, his return to the national team seems imminent.

BCB President Speaks on Leadership and Najmul Hossain's Captaincy

Faruque also addressed the issue of Najmul Hossain's captaincy. Najmul, who currently leads the Bangladesh national team, had earlier indicated that he was not willing to continue as captain beyond the home series against South Africa. However, after discussions with the BCB President, Najmul agreed to extend his tenure as captain.

The BCB is set to make a final decision regarding Najmul’s leadership after he completes his term in December. Faruque stated that the selection committee would evaluate the situation and decide whether Najmul will continue in the role or if a change will be made.

"After Najmul completes his tenure in December, we will discuss his future as captain. He had initially said he was not ready to continue, but I convinced him to stay on for now," said Faruque.

The captaincy issue remains a key point of discussion as Bangladesh prepares for their upcoming international fixtures.

No Clear Policy on Player Retirement and Selection

Regarding the broader issue of player retirement and selection, Faruque explained that there is no clear policy at the moment. He emphasized that if a player has not formally retired, the selection committee would consult with them before making any decisions.

The lack of a formal retirement policy means that players like Tamim and Shakib are still very much in contention for national selection, as long as they remain active in domestic competitions and do not announce their retirement.

"There's no formal policy on player retirement. If a player hasn’t retired, the selectors will make the decision based on the needs of the team, and the player will be consulted," Faruque said.

Key Decisions Awaiting

As the Champions Trophy draws near, the Bangladesh Cricket Board faces important decisions regarding the availability of two of the country's most experienced players. Shakib Al Hasan’s future remains uncertain, and much depends on his personal decisions regarding his participation in domestic cricket and his fitness to bowl. Meanwhile, Tamim Iqbal’s impressive form in the NCL T20 has positioned him as a key contender for selection.

The BCB is also focused on leadership matters, with Najmul Hossain’s captaincy under review after his tenure ends in December. With no clear policy on player retirement, the selectors will have to make calls on these issues based on the team’s needs and the players’ readiness.

In the coming weeks, the BCB will likely finalize its squad for the Champions Trophy, taking into account player fitness, form, and availability. For now, the futures of Shakib and Tamim remain the subject of much speculation, with the BCB President confirming that both players are still very much in the mix for national selection.