Bangladesh Cricket Team Awaits Shakib Al Hasan’s Fitness Update Ahead of Match Against India
The Bangladesh cricket team is facing uncertainty ahead of their crucial match against India in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, a key player for Bangladesh, went for a scan after their defeat to New Zealand, and his availability for the upcoming match remains in doubt.
Following Bangladesh’s practice session in Pune, Shakib did not bowl, raising concerns about his fitness. The team is awaiting the results of his scan to determine whether he will be able to play against India. Coach Chandika Hathurusinghe stated, “At the moment he is OK. We haven’t tried with bowling yet. So, he will come tomorrow morning and we will assess him again and then make a decision.”
The team is cautious about risking Shakib’s health and will only allow him to play if he is fully fit. Hathurusinghe even suggested that Shakib may play solely as a batsman if he is not ready to contribute with the ball.
The decision regarding Shakib’s inclusion in the playing XI will involve input from the team’s medical staff, captain, and coach. They will evaluate the risk and determine if he can contribute in one discipline or both. The team wants to prioritize the player’s long-term health and not push him too hard if there is a risk of aggravating the injury.
Earlier in the week, team director Khaled Mahmud mentioned that the final decision would be made by the doctor and physio. He emphasized the importance of not troubling Shakib in the long term and mentioned that if he gets clearance from the physio, he will play.
Shakib Al Hasan has been exceptional with the ball against India in recent matches, taking 10 wickets at an average of just 18. However, the Indian team is not overly concerned about his potential inclusion. India’s bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, acknowledged Shakib’s abilities but stated that their focus is on their own preparation and execution.
A win for India in this match would give them four consecutive victories in the tournament and strengthen their position for a semi-final spot. On the other hand, a victory for Bangladesh would significantly improve their slim chances of qualifying for the semi-finals. Bangladesh can take confidence from their recent head-to-head record against India, as they have won three of the past four meetings, including their most recent encounter at the Asia Cup.
As fans eagerly await the news on Shakib Al Hasan’s fitness, the outcome of this match promises to be an exciting contest between two competitive teams.