Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain has stated that it will become clear in the next couple of days whether Shakib Al Hasan will be included in the Champions Trophy squad.
The focus of interest and discussions has been on Tamim Iqbal, and naturally, Shakib’s name came up amid the ongoing uncertainty. However, no confirmed information has been obtained about his situation. The selectors have not received a clear answer from the board despite inquiring. Gazi Ashraf Hossain mentioned that, like Tamim, the selectors will have to wait for confirmation regarding Shakib as well.
When announcing his retirement from Tests last September, Shakib had stated that he hoped to play in the Champions Trophy before saying farewell to international cricket. However, just as he couldn’t return to play his farewell Test, his participation in the Champions Trophy now hangs in the balance, shrouded in uncertainty.
The BCB president recently mentioned that he would make another attempt to get Shakib into the Champions Trophy squad. He also clarified that this decision is not solely for the board to make, as it also depends on approval from the government.
Adding to the political uncertainty is a cricketing one. Shakib was banned from bowling after his action was deemed faulty during county cricket. After failing a bowling test in England, he underwent another test in Chennai, which he also failed. He has since undergone another test in Chennai, but the result is still pending.
Meanwhile, the selectors met with Tamim Iqbal in Sylhet on Wednesday regarding his place in the Champions Trophy squad. Afterward, Gazi Ashraf Hossain told the media that Tamim has requested more time to think about his decision.
While discussing Tamim, the chief selector also commented on Shakib’s situation, expressing uncertainty about whether he had taken another bowling test.
“There has been no directive on Shakib. He didn’t pass the first test, which was very shocking. I need to confirm whether he has taken another test at the personal level… I need to check on that,” he said.
The deadline for announcing the Champions Trophy squad is next Sunday. If Shakib passes the bowling test in the meantime, it would remove one obstacle. However, the major hurdle remains, as highlighted by the chief selector.
“We, the selectors, have asked the board if Shakib is available for this process. We haven’t received a full response yet, just a partial one,” he explained.
“Since it’s being heard that he has participated in the (bowling) test, we’ll have to wait for that as well. Every minute could be crucial, and I hope things will be clearer within one or two days.”
