Bangladesh Welcomes Shakib Al Hasan Back for Second Test Against Sri Lanka

Interim head coach of Bangladesh, Nic Pothas, expresses his delight at the return of seasoned all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to the Test squad. This comes as the team gears up to bounce back from a significant defeat in the first match of the ICC World Test Championship series against Sri Lanka.

“Any team would be fortunate to have Shakib,” Pothas remarked.

“His return is a welcome development. His presence in the dressing room is always a boost. He brings an infectious energy and a wealth of experience that the team can learn from. Shakib is always generous with his knowledge, and we truly appreciate having him with the group,” he added.

Shakib Al Hasan’s performance as a batsman, bowler, and captain was instrumental in Bangladesh’s victory over Sri Lanka at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

Shakib had been absent from international cricket for some time after being diagnosed with a retinal condition in January this year.

Pothas noted that Shakib appears to have lost weight and expressed satisfaction with his form in the recently concluded Bangladesh Premier League.

“Shakib is a true professional. He is aware of his strengths and weaknesses and adapts to the conditions. That’s what makes him world class,” Pothas stated.

“Shakib’s presence in the group brings a sense of calm. He also provides Shanto with an additional source of advice. His vast experience on the field brings a sense of tranquility,” he added.

Pothas also urged fans to be patient with the young players in the Test squad following their substantial loss in Sylhet against Sri Lanka.

“We have a very young and inexperienced group,” Pothas pointed out.

“We are in a rebuilding phase following a very elite group. We request patience from the fans. These young players are talented but need time to learn and grow. We wouldn’t expect any different from our children when we put them into new environments. We don’t expect them to become experts overnight,” he explained.

ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 Standings

Currently, Bangladesh is on par with Sri Lanka in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 Standings, with one win and two losses in three Tests.

The second Test is set to commence in Chattogram on Saturday, 30 March.