Bangladesh cricket fans have been given a major boost as star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been declared fit and available for the second Test against India.
With rumors swirling around about a finger injury after the first Test, Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusinghe has firmly put those concerns to rest.
In his latest statement on Wednesday, Hathurusinghe confirmed that Shakib is fully fit and ready to play in what promises to be another thrilling encounter.
“I’ve heard nothing from the physio about any injury,” Hathurusinghe said during a press conference in Kanpur ahead of the crucial second Test. “Shakib is fully eligible for selection, and the only changes we’ll make depend on the pitch conditions.”
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Shakib’s Performance Under Scrutiny
Shakib Al Hasan, who has long been the linchpin of Bangladesh cricket, has recently come under scrutiny for his form.
In the first Test against India, Shakib managed to score 32 in the first innings and 25 in the second, but he failed to take any wickets, which raised eyebrows.
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Despite the loss, Hathurusinghe remains confident in his captain, emphasizing that the India bowling attack is one of the best in the world and that Shakib’s struggles are understandable given the circumstances.
“We all know what Shakib is capable of,” the Bangladesh coach stated confidently. “He batted really well in the second innings but couldn’t push on, not because of a lack of effort but because of the sheer quality of the opposition.”
Bangladesh’s first Test defeat, where they were bowled out for 149 and 234, was a heavy one, with India winning by 280 runs. The team, and Shakib in particular, will be looking for a turnaround performance in the second Test, starting on Friday.
India, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, are currently at the top of the World Test Championship rankings and showed their superiority in the first Test. They will be aiming to extend their lead and further cement their position.
But for Bangladesh, the presence of an in-form Shakib is crucial if they are to stand any chance of bouncing back in this series.
Shakib has long been the driving force behind Bangladesh’s success, whether through his middle-order batting or his left-arm spin bowling.
His importance to the team cannot be overstated, and his experience in both domestic and international cricket makes him the player India will have their eyes on.
Though Shakib did not manage to pick up any wickets in the first Test, Hathurusinghe’s confidence in his star player remains steadfast.
The coach highlighted that Shakib’s role is not just limited to his personal performance but also includes leadership and inspiration for his younger teammates. If Shakib fires with either the bat or the ball, it could make all the difference in Kanpur.
Shakib has been no stranger to challenges both on and off the field. The 37-year-old has faced political and personal controversies in recent times, including allegations back home in Bangladesh. Despite these pressures, he has remained a focal point of his country’s cricket team.
Shakib’s international career has been marked by incredible achievements. One of the greatest all-rounders in the history of the game, Shakib has been instrumental in many of Bangladesh’s historic wins.
His contribution to the team, both as a leader and as a player, was especially evident during the Test series sweep against Pakistan earlier this year. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure makes him a key asset for Bangladesh as they gear up for the second Test.
While the spotlight will be on Shakib, India’s young fast bowler Akash Deep is ready to continue his impressive start. Deep, who took two wickets in the first Test, is focusing on staying grounded and not letting the pressure of international cricket get to him.
“As a player, you need to understand yourself and know your strengths,” Deep said in a recent interview. “We have a huge responsibility to deliver the goods, and the focus is always on bowling in good areas and getting wickets.”
With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj leading India’s attack, Deep has found himself in a competitive environment where every fast bowler is expected to deliver.
India’s bowling unit has been their strength in recent years, and Kanpur’s slow pitch is expected to offer plenty of opportunities for the spinners and fast bowlers alike by Day 3.
The upcoming Test in Kanpur is shaping up to be a crucial moment for both teams. For India, it’s an opportunity to extend their dominance and continue their journey to the top of world cricket. For Bangladesh, it’s a chance to regroup, refocus, and fight back, with Shakib Al Hasan playing a pivotal role.
The pitch in Kanpur is expected to be slow and low, with spinners likely to play a significant role as the match progresses.
This could be an opportunity for Shakib to make a mark with the ball, as Bangladesh look to level the series and salvage some pride.
