The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has named uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad as a replacement for veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan in the squad for the upcoming first Test against South Africa. The match is scheduled to take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on October 21.
Hasan Murad, 23, has demonstrated impressive form in domestic cricket, taking 136 wickets in just 30 first-class matches since his debut in 2021. His inclusion comes after Shakib opted out of the Test due to security concerns. Gazi Ashraf Hossain, Chairman of the BCB National Selection Panel, acknowledged Shakib’s invaluable experience, stating, “Although he is at the end of his Test career, we currently do not have anyone who can replace him in both batting and bowling.”
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Shakib’s absence is linked to ongoing security issues related to his return to Bangladesh. Initially planning to travel from Dubai to Dhaka, he was advised by higher authorities to await further instructions before boarding his flight. Shakib, who previously served as a lawmaker under the Sheikh Hasina-led government, has been residing in the USA amid rising political tensions in Bangladesh. In a statement to bdnews24.com, Shakib expressed his concerns: “I was to return home… but now I don’t think I can. It is over a security issue, a matter of my own security.”
The BCB reportedly encouraged Shakib to cancel his flight to Dhaka and remain in the USA, further complicating his involvement in the Test series against South Africa.
