Domingo: It's difficult to play Shakib if he is 50-60 per cent fit
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|| CF DESK ||
Bangladesh head coach Russell Domingo was not confident about Shakib Al Hasan's inclusion in the first Test match against Sri Lanka.
Shakib was tested positive with the virus twice upon his arrival from the USA. He returned negative in the Covid-19 test on Friday.
Domingo said Shakib has not recovered completely and considering him in the XI will be difficult for the team as the coach demand a 100% fit player for five-day game.
"Anybody would want a fully-fit Shakib in your best XI, but it is very difficult to play if he is 50-60 per cent fit," Domingo said.
"Coming straight into a Test match, we need to check his fitness and assess where he is. He has just come off Covid, and he hasn't played much cricket. He's obviously a big player for us and balances the team. But we need to see how he is tomorrow. He hasn't batted or bowled for the last two or three weeks. It is five days of cricket. It is hot. There are all sorts of things to consider,"
"I have had Covid badly, so the energy is not quite the same. You can't go into a (Test match) straightaway. It is not a T20 or ODI which is done in six or seven overs. It is going to happen for over five days. Of course, we want him to play, he is one of the best cricketers that's ever played. But we need to make sure that he gives himself the best chance to perform and fulfill his role. Bowl at least 15 overs a day, bat for three or four overs in the top six."
Domingoalso said that they are considering a player who provide them the bowling option while still batting in the top seven.
