Bangladesh cricket fans have been eagerly awaiting an update on Shakib Al Hasan ahead of the second Test against India, following concerns about his fitness after the first Test in Chennai. The match is set to take place in Kanpur, where the star all-rounder has been cleared for selection despite concerns over a finger injury.
Head coach Chandika Hathurusinghe has confirmed that Shakib is “eligible for selection,” easing worries for the Bangladesh side as they look to level the series.
Shakib’s Performance in the First Test
In the first Test in Chennai, Shakib’s performance was underwhelming compared to his usual high standards. He didn’t bowl until the 53rd over of India’s first innings, which sparked speculation about a possible injury. His final bowling figures were 0 for 50 in eight overs and 0 for 79 in 13 overs, which were far from his best. With the bat, he scored 32 and 25 in Bangladesh’s two innings, as they fell to a heavy 280-run defeat.
The broadcast commentary during the match hinted that Shakib might have been playing through a finger niggle, but neither the team’s batting coach, David Hemp, nor the head coach, Hathurusinghe, could confirm the injury. Hathurusinghe reassured reporters ahead of the Kanpur Test that Shakib was available to play, stating:
“I haven’t heard anything officially or any complaints [about Shakib],” said Hathurusinghe. “There is no doubt about that at the moment. He’s still eligible for selection.”
Check out the full Bangladesh squad for the India tour here.
The Importance of Shakib Al Hasan for Bangladesh
Shakib Al Hasan is a key player in the Bangladesh cricket team. He is one of the most skilled all-rounders in world cricket, known for his ability to both bat and bowl at crucial moments. Although he struggled in the first Test, Shakib’s experience and leadership are invaluable for a team facing a formidable Indian side. Despite his poor figures in Chennai, the coach emphasized that the responsibility for the team’s performance was collective:
“I’m not upset about Shakib’s performance but our overall performance,” Hathurusinghe said.
“We all know what he’s capable of. He batted well in the second innings, but couldn’t go on. It’s not because of a lack of pride; it’s the sheer quality of the opposition.”
Shakib’s Potential Impact in the Kanpur Test
With the second Test to be played at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur, Shakib will have the opportunity to make a significant impact. The pitch in Kanpur is expected to be less lively than Chennai’s surface, which could work in favor of Bangladesh. A solid contribution from Shakib, both with the ball and bat, will be critical if Bangladesh hopes to level the two-match series.
The Bangladesh team, which was heavily reliant on left-handed batsmen in Chennai, struggled against India’s bowling attack. One option to counter this is to include right-hander Mahmudul Hasan Joy in the playing XI. However, Hathurusinghe confirmed that any changes to the squad would be based on overall performance rather than just a left-hand/right-hand balance:
“Just because of left-handers or right-handers, it’s not the thing we will take into consideration. If we make a change, it will be about what that player can bring,” said Hathurusinghe.
Read the latest news and analysis on Bangladesh’s ongoing tour of India.
Bangladesh’s Need for a Strong First Innings
In the first Test, Bangladesh struggled to build a strong base in the first innings, which was a significant difficulty for them. Trailing 0-1 in the series, they will need a much-improved performance in the Kanpur Test, especially from their top order. Conditions in Kanpur could be more favorable, allowing the batsmen to settle in and build a competitive total.
Shakib Al Hasan, who is often at the heart of Bangladesh’s batting lineup, will be expected to lead by example. His ability to score runs under pressure has been proven in the past, and the team will rely on his experience to face the relentless Indian bowling attack.
View the full schedule of Bangladesh’s matches against India.
Challenges Posed by India’s Bowling Attack
India’s fast bowlers were particularly effective against Bangladesh in the first Test. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj dismantled Bangladesh’s left-handed batsmen with precision. However, Bangladesh’s think tank is confident that they can counter India’s bowling attack through better application and a tactical approach.
The inclusion of Shakib Al Hasan, if he is fully fit, will provide much-needed stability in both batting and bowling departments.
Historically, Shakib has delivered memorable performances under pressure. According to his ESPN Cricinfo profile, he has been instrumental in Bangladesh’s rare successes against stronger teams like India. His past records suggest that he thrives in high-pressure situations, and fans will be hoping for a vintage performance from him in Kanpur.
