SA v BAN 2022: Shakib Al Hasan declares availability for South Africa tour days after pulling out

Shakib had opted out of the tour, citing "stress and fatigue".

Shakib Al Hasan | GettyBangladesh’s leading all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has made himself available for the upcoming South Africa tour, days after he had opted out citing "stress and fatigue".

Shakib was given a rest till April 30 from all formats by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, which has now been left embarrassed by the turn of events.

On Saturday (March 12), BCB president Nazmul Hassan confirmed that Shakib is available for the upcoming ODI and Test series against South Africa.

“Shakib is available for all the formats for the South Africa tour. He will travel to South Africa tomorrow," Nazmul told reporters.

Shakib is facing criticism for all the drama involving his availability, but Nazmul urged fans to show consideration to the national side.

“We have to remember that the senior players go through tremendous pressure," he said.

“We have to play 14 ODIs, 15 T20Is this year, and we have to play eight Tests as well. It’s tough for our senior players to play all these matches. We have to understand it," he added.

Shakib Al Hasan told reporters that he has decided to play over the next year, with the board to take a call on his rest.

Bangladesh’s tour of South Africa is slated to get underway with the first ODI on March 18 at Centurion.

(With AFP inputs)

 
 

By Salman Anjum - 13 Mar, 2022

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