Shakib Al Hasan Likely to Miss ODIs Against Afghanistan

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed has indicated that star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is unlikely to participate in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sharjah. This decision stems from Shakib's own choice, which reflects the emotional impact of not being able to play in what was meant to be his farewell Test in Dhaka against South Africa on October 21.

Shakib has been absent from competitive cricket for nearly a month following the second Test in India. He is expected to participate in the Abu Dhabi T10 League with the Bangla Tigers to regain match fitness before the Bangladesh squad embarks on its tour of the West Indies.

Upcoming Tour Details

Following the Afghanistan ODIs, Bangladesh will head to the West Indies for a more extensive tour, which includes two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. Given that Shakib has retired from Tests and T20Is, he remains eligible for the ODI series in the Caribbean and for the Champions Trophy scheduled for February 2025. Notably, he has not featured in ODIs since the World Cup held in India last year.

BCB's Insight on Shakib's Situation

“After Shakib couldn’t come to play his (farewell) Test, he wasn’t doing much practice,” Faruque explained during a press conference. “I think he needs some time to regroup. We haven’t taken a final decision, but he looks unlikely to play the next series (against Afghanistan). He could be playing a T10 tournament soon. I feel he can still play for Bangladesh in the 50-over format. There are three ODIs against West Indies before the Champions Trophy.”

While the BCB has yet to make a definitive call on Shakib's participation, Faruque mentioned that selectors would consider his performance in training and franchise cricket when making their decision. "Shakib has played for 17 years and is part of a generation that plays a lot of franchise cricket. They know the drill. They play, sleep maybe a few hours, and turn up for training. So he is geared for such situations," he added.

Selection Considerations

The national selectors have not yet announced the squad for the ODIs against Afghanistan, which begin on November 6. Faruque Ahmed also highlighted that he will meet with Najmul Hossain Shanto, who has recently expressed hesitance to lead the national team.

On another note, Faruque clarified that the decision for Shakib to skip the Test in Dhaka was made by the government, and the BCB was not involved in that decision-making process. "The BCB wasn’t a part of the decision of Shakib not coming to Bangladesh," he stated. “Our sports adviser informed the media at the time that there was a problem if he comes. I didn’t have to make a statement. I heard that there was security until 3 or 4 pm, and then there were clashes between the two sides.”

Summary

In summary, Shakib Al Hasan's absence from the ODIs against Afghanistan appears increasingly likely as he prioritizes regaining fitness and managing his emotional well-being following his missed farewell Test. The BCB remains supportive, acknowledging Shakib's extensive experience and previous success in the ODI format as they look ahead to the upcoming series against the West Indies and the Champions Trophy.