SA vs BAN: Shakib Al Hasan Ready To Tour South Africa After Discussion With BCB

Veteran Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan reversed his decision to not tour South Africa and said he is available to play all three formats for the Bangladesh national team.

Earlier, the senior player had requested the Bangladesh Cricket Board to rest from international cricket and didn’t want to tour South Africa as he was physically and mentally fatigued.

I am available for all three formats: Shakib Al Hasan

The 34-year-old all-rounder said that he will be available for the South Africa tour and will let the board decide about his break. The player will fly from Dhaka to South Africa in order to be available to play the first ODI match on March 18.

“I spoke to [BCB president Nazmul Hassan] Papon bhai for the last two days, when we planned the entire year. I am available for all three formats,” Shakib said in a joint press conference with Hassan and other board members on Saturday.

“The board will decide when to give me rest, that includes the South Africa series. I am available for the SA series,” he added.

The board is always with the players: Nazmul Hassan

BCB president Nazmul Hassan explained the discussion between the board and the senior player about his request for a break from international cricket for some time.

“After reaching Dubai [for a personal engagement], Shakib told me he would make the final decision after speaking to me. Then he told us that he didn’t want to go to South Africa. We granted him leave, which was later announced to the media (on Thursday). Then, the day before yesterday, he told me he was mentally tired. It can happen to anyone at any time,” Hassan said.

“He was having trouble making up his mind, so we supported him during this time. The board is always with them [the players],” he added. 

Bangladesh will play three ODI matches against the Proteas followed by a couple of Tests starting on March 31.

Also Read: BCB President Miffed With Shakib Al Hasan For Deciding Not To Feature In South Africa Series