Bangladesh- South Africa Series
Shanto: We are having trouble finding the combination without Shakib
|| CF DESK ||
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto described it as unfortunate that Shakib Al Hasan will not get a farewell Test at home. He also mentioned that the team is still adjusting their combination without the star all-rounder ahead of the first Test against South Africa.
Shakib had initially been named in the squad for the first Test and was returning to Bangladesh from the USA.
However, he was advised by the government not to return due to 'security concerns.' The former Awami League lawmaker then returned to the USA, and the selection committee promptly named left-arm spinner Hasan Murad as his replacement.
When asked about his opinion regarding the whole situation at a press conference in Mirpur on Sunday, Shanto said everybody in Bangladesh team feels Shakib’s farewell is pending.
"Very unfortunate (Shakib not getting a farewell Test at home). It should have been but we all know why it didn't happen. Whatever the reason, this was very unfortunate. I think everybody in the team feels that this thing (Shakib's farewell) is pending. But I don't want to dwell any further on this issue a day before a Test match," Shanto said on Sunday.
The first Test against South Africa starts in Mirpur tomorrow, and Shanto implied that it's not been easy making changes to plans at the eleventh hour.
"Of course he was in our plans. He is one of the best players in the world, not just in Bangladesh. To be honest, we are having trouble finding the combination. It will take time. But everyone is capable and will play their part." Shanto added.