Shakib Al Hasan, the renowned all-rounder, is expected to join the Bangladesh squad for the second Test in the series against Sri Lanka, set to commence on March 30 in Chattogram.
A senior official from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed on Friday that Shakib's participation hinges on his fitness. The team is hopeful for his return and awaits his final decision.
The official stated, "We anticipate Shakib's availability for the second Test and are currently awaiting his decision," preferring to remain anonymous. Although Shakib expressed a desire to play in both Tests, he prioritized his participation in the Dhaka Premier League due to fitness concerns. Earlier, Shakib was struggling with his batting due to his eye problem during the beginning of the Bangladesh Premier League but as time passed, he started to flourish with the bat, making 249 runs in 11 matches despite scoring only four runs from the first three innings.
Shakib's absence was felt in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and the New Zealand tour. His last Test appearance was in April of the previous year, playing against Ireland on home soil.
Bangladesh's batting lineup, currently missing Mushfiqur Rahim due to a finger injury, would greatly benefit from Shakib's return. His all-round capabilities are expected to significantly strengthen the team's composition.