Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan who was struggling to bowl against India during the first Test is now doubtful to feature against the Men in Blue for the upcoming Test in Kanpur. This can turn out to be a huge blow for Bangladesh who just suffered a humiliating 280-run defeat in the first Test.
While batting, Shakib got hit by a Jasprit Bumrah delivery and needed some treatment after his right hand finger started bleeding.
Shakib has come under scrutiny after his recent poor performances and many have even questioned his inclusion in the team. However, selector Hannan Sarkar defended him, highlighting that Shakib’s batting displayed a strong sense of application.
“Shakib is out best player. When he is in the playing eleven, it’s easier for us to form the team combination,” Hannan told reporters.
“I liked his batting. In his batting approach, compared to others and compared to how Shakib has batted before, he appeared very confident. He played with ease and handled the pressure. Yes, he didn’t score big but he is always important to the balance of the side,” Hannan added.
Shakib sustained the injury during Chennai Test
The Bangladesh team selector also clarified that Shakib was fine before the Bangladesh Test but ended up suffering the injury during the Chennai Test.
“We always have to think before picking Shakib for the next match and there is time before the next match. We will see what condition he is in,” Hannan said.
“We know the pain in his hand is being discussed. It was not there before the match and many have tried to explain it in different ways. But before the match, we got a 100 percent clearance from the physio before taking him. He was a 100 percent fit then. You can’t say it’s an injury. The discomfort he felt in that finger was not there before the match. He felt that when he started to bowl,” Hannan added.
The second and final Test of the series between India and Bangladesh will be held at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur and will commence from September 27.
