Bangladesh coach said, “I have not heard anything on Shakib regarding any complaints”

On Wednesday, two days before the final Test of the series between India and Bangladesh, the Bangladesh head coach ended the ongoing debate about Shakib Al Hasan's availability for the second Test, stating that he had not heard any complaints from the all-rounder. Given the importance of the final Test, scheduled to start on September 27 in Kanpur, the southpaw is expected to be part of the playing XI, as his presence is a significant advantage for the Bangla Tigers against the dominant Indian team on a spinning track at Green Park Stadium.

Shakib's availability became a topic of discussion after he injured his finger while batting in the first Test in Chennai, struck by a delivery from Jasprit Bumrah. Speculation grew stronger after the left-handed batter faced just eight to ten balls in the nets before deciding to stop. Considering his body language after the net session, he did not appear very comfortable either.

Highlighting this, the Bangladesh head coach stated, “ I have not heard anything on Shakib regarding any complaints. I haven't heard from mycd physio or anyone else so he is eligible for selection," Hathurusingha told reporters at Kanpur on Wednesday.

Hathurusingha conveyed that he is not worried about Shakib's recent batting struggles. In the two-match series against Pakistan last month, Shakib scored only 38 runs in three innings, and in the opening Test against India, he made just 32 and 25.

"I am upset about not his (Shakib's) performance, but our overall performance and how we could have done better. I am sure that he also thinks that he can perform better and we all know what he is capable of," said the coach.

It will be intriguing to see how the Bangladesh team utilizes Shakib Al Hasan's experience in this must-win game, which offers plenty of support for spinners.