"Shakib is a top player" - Bangladesh chief selector expects robust security measures for their players ahead of Pakistan tour
Bangladesh men's team's chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain has cited the need for robust security measures ahead of the Pakistan tour, considering the presence of top players like Shakib Al Hasan and the situation in their own country. Hossain admitted that the 37-year-old is now also a political figure, but asserted that the selection has been done on merit.
The last few weeks have seen widespread chaos in Bangladesh as student protests gave rise to arson, violence and destruction. The protests have caused the fall of the government, prompting Sheikh Haseena to flee from Bangladesh. The whereabouts of Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Nazmul Hassan Papon remain unknown too.
Speaking to reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium on Monday (August 12), the 63-year-old Hossain said that Shakib deserves to be in the Test squad to face Pakistan due to his talent and that he will be considered as long as he plays. As quoted by Cricbuzz, Hossain remarked:
"In practice sessions, there are security issues regarding every player or official. That definitely has to be ensured in light of current circumstances because Shakib is a top player in Bangladesh. In terms of selection, we had to think of many things because he is a political person. But his selection was done because of his talent.
"We have been open regarding his talent and we do that for every player and we will do that in the future if we remain in the selection panel."
The left-arm spinner copped boos during the recent Global T20 in Canada for keeping mum on the protests in Bangladesh.
"Cannot dare to consider him only as a bowler" - Gazi Ashraf Hossain on Shakib Al Hasan
The former Bangladesh cricketer suggested that the veteran seems to have recovered from his eye injury and that his adaptability makes him stand out as a cricketer. On this, he added:
"I haven't received any updates from our medical team regarding his eyes. Globally, Shakib is one of the best all-rounders for the past 25 (15) years and I maintain that opinion. I cannot dare to consider him only as a bowler. The way he has been able to take himself to new heights and his adjustability to different formats and his record against Pakistan are all considered for his inclusion."
The Test series against Pakistan begins on August 21 in Rawalpindi.