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'We Must Focus...,' Shanto Makes Bold Comment On Shakib Al Hasan's Absence In 1st Test Vs SA

Shakib Al Hasan to miss Test against South Africa (Source: @idocricket/x.com)Shakib Al Hasan to miss Test against South Africa (Source: @idocricket/x.com)

In the recent development, Bangladesh's captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, expressed regret over Shakib Al Hasan's absence from what was expected to be his farewell Test match against South Africa. However, Shanto also urged his team to stay focused on the upcoming two-match series against South Africa, with the first Test starting on Monday.

The legendary all-rounder was named in the squad and had also publicly shared his desire to retire from Test cricket on home soil in Dhaka. Unfortunately, he was unable to travel to Bangladesh due to political unrest. Protests against Shakib, created security concerns, leading the government to advise against his arrival.

Shanto Shares His Views On Shakib’s Absence 

Najmul Hossain Shanto made it clear that, while Shakib’s farewell Test would have been a fitting end to his remarkable career, the team’s focus needed to remain on the upcoming matches. 

"It is unfortunate. It should have happened. But we can't spend too much time talking about it on the day before the Test match. [Shakib's arrival] is not in our control, so we are not spending too much time thinking about it. We have to focus on the two important Tests and that's what the players are doing. We had plans to send off one of the world's best players. All of us personally feel that it remains pending. Our focus is on winning the Test that starts tomorrow. We would have been happy if it was his farewell Test. We all know why he is unable to come."Shanto said. 

The absence of Shakib, poses a significant challenge for the team, particularly in balancing their lineup. His ability to contribute both with the bat and ball has long allowed Bangladesh to field an extra batter or bowler. Now, the team must find a way to fill that void.

To fill Shakib’s spot in the squad, Bangladesh has called up uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad, who boasts an impressive first-class record. Shanto expressed confidence in Murad’s abilities and in the spin attack overall, which will be crucial on South African pitches.

Bangladesh enters the series with mixed recent results. They celebrated their maiden Test series victory in Pakistan, winning 2-0, but suffered a series defeat against India earlier this month.