Shakib Al Hasan, the seasoned all-rounder, is set to make a comeback in the Bangladesh Test squad after a yearlong hiatus from the longest format. His inclusion comes ahead of the crucial second Test against Sri Lanka, scheduled to commence on March 30 in Chattogram 12.
Shakib’s recent form with the bat has been promising. In a Dhaka Premier League match, batting at No. 3 for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club, he scored a fluent half-century (53 off 65 deliveries) against Gazi Group Cricketers on Wednesday. Unfortunately, he was dismissed by Gaffar, caught behind, as Sheikh Jamal posted a total of 233 runs 1.
In the previous two DPL matches this season, Shakib contributed scores of 19 and 34, while also taking four wickets in total across those games 1. His return to the Test squad is a significant boost for Bangladesh, especially after their heavy defeat by 328 runs in the first Test in Sylhet 1.
Accompanied by pacer Hasan Mahmud, Shakib will depart for Chattogram on Thursday to join the rest of the squad for the second Test 1. His last Test appearance was in April 2023, and his most recent international match was during the ODI World Cup in November last year 1.
Bangladesh’s Test squad for the second Test includes players like Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), Mehidy Hassan Miraz, and Taijul Islam, among others 1. Let’s hope Shakib’s return adds strength to the team as they aim for a better performance in the upcoming match.