Shakib Al Hasan Out; Bangladesh's Strongest XI For 2nd Test Vs India
Shakib Al Hasan is doubtful for 2nd Test vs India [PTI]
In a massive setback for Bangladesh, legendary all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan might miss the decider of the ongoing two-match Test series against India at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. As per emerging reports, the veteran cricketer is doubtful for this encounter, as he is suffering from an injury.
The first Test was forgettable for Shakib, as he let the visitors down with his dismal performances with bat and ball. The southpaw, who went wicketless in the Test match, managed only 57 runs across two innings.
However, despite his rough patch, Shakib could be a huge miss for Bangladesh as they gear up to force an upset and restore parity in the series. So, as his participation is in jeopardy, let's analyse and find out Bangladesh's strongest XI for this game.
Nahid Rana To Make Room For Taijul Islam?
If Shakib Al Hasan doesn't feature in the second Test, left-arm spinner Taijul Islam might play as his like-for-like bowling replacement to bolster Bangladesh's spin unit. The experienced spinner has been an asset with the ball for Bangladesh, scalping 195 wickets in 46 Test matches.
Considering a more spin-friendly pitch will be dished out for the second Test in Kanpur, Bangladesh could drop Nahid Rana, replacing him with Taijul Islam. Meanwhile, Hasan Mahmud and Taskin Ahmed will continue to lead the Tigers' pace attack and pose a threat to India's formidable batting unit.
Will Jaker Ali Compensate For Shakib's Batting?
As Bangladesh don't have another all-rounder in their reserves, they will need a batter to compensate for Shakib in the middle order. In such a scenario, we might see Jaker Ali getting a wildcard entry into their lineup as a pure batter. If he plays, the will bat in the lower middle order and strengthen the Tigers' batting department.
Bangladesh's strongest playing XI for 2nd Test vs India
Shadman Islam, Zakir Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (WK), Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Taijul Islam