Bangladesh’s tour of India has not started well, as they suffered a heavy 280-run defeat in the first Test in Chennai.
With hopes now pinned on the upcoming Kanpur Test, the team faces another setback as veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is under observation and uncertain for the match.
Shakib sustained a finger injury in Chennai after being hit by a delivery from Jasprit Bumrah.
Despite criticism, selector Hannan Sarkar defended Shakib, stating, “Shakib is our best player. When he’s in the playing eleven, it’s easier for us to form the team combination. I liked his batting approach. He appeared very confident, handled pressure well. He didn’t score big, but he remains crucial to the team’s balance.”
Shakib scored 32 and 25 in the two innings and bowled a few overs but didn’t have a major impact on the match.
Hannan also clarified that Shakib’s injury occurred during the game, adding, “There was no pain in his hand before the match. We got a 100 percent clearance from the physio before picking him, but we’ll assess his condition before the next game.”