Shakib Al Hasan's Participation In AFG vs BAN ODI Series In Doubt After Missing Dhaka Test
Shakib Al Hasan may miss AFG vs BAN ODI series [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]
Legendary Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is gearing up to say goodbye to One-Day Internationals (ODIs) after the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. The great all-rounder, who has been the backbone of Bangladesh cricket for more than a decade, has decided to call time in ODIs. While this news comes as a massive development for the cricketing fraternity, Shakib’s future in the upcoming AFG vs BAN ODI series remains wrapped in mystery.
Shakib’s Participation in AFG vs BAN Series Remains A Mystery
As Bangladesh preps to take on Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series in the UAE, Shakib's involvement is unsure. The series which is set to take place after the end of Bangladesh's Test series vs South Africa is looked at as vital preparation for the Champions Trophy 2025. However, with Shakib’s availability still uncertain, the selectors find themselves caught in an unpleasant situation.
While speaking to The Daily Star, Bangladesh selector Hannan Sarker mentioned:
“The board will inform us regarding Shakib’s availability. It’s not just about Shakib; injuries or personal issues can affect any player. We will finalize the selection after the second Test against South Africa.”
This uncertainty has made fans apprehensive as Shakib Al Hasan's experience could be immensely important vs an in-form Afghanistan side. The selectors will be eager to select a balanced team covering all bases, especially since it's the first ODI series for the Bangla Tigers since their tour of Sri Lanka in March earlier this year.
President’s Approval Awaited
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is also waiting for the the return of its president before making any final decisions on the ODI squad.
“We’re waiting for our president to return. We are set to make an ODI team after a long time. So, we want to consult with him before finalizing the squad,” Sarker added.
Meanwhile, the decision-making process by BCB has been complicated. With Shakib's availability hanging by a thread and the BCB tackling player injuries, the final Bangladesh squad announcement for ODIs vs Afghanistan may not be made until the last moment. The selectors will hope that everything falls into place and Bangladesh can field a strong squad in the UAE.