DHAKA: Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Faruque Ahmed on Sunday shared that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is part of the team’s plans for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in the next window of February to March. year.
Ahmed, while addressing the media during a private event here on Sunday, acknowledged Shakib’s ‘challenge’ in representing Bangladesh due to him being absent from the country due to security reasons, but revealed that the all-rounder remains in the BCB’s plans for the eight -team tournament.
“It is certainly a challenge for Shakib to play for Bangladesh while he is abroad. For now, he remains part of our strategy for the Champions Trophy scheduled in February and March next year,” Ahmed said.
“Shakib is still on our list. We hope that if a resolution to his current situation emerges, he will retain the ability to contribute significantly to the national team. However, competing abroad presents substantial challenges for any player,” he added.
Shakib, who has come under severe criticism due to his political affiliation with the Awami League, last represented Bangladesh in October.
Following the advice of BCB officials, the all-rounder did not return to the country for the two-match home Test series against South Africa and subsequently missed the ODIs against Afghanistan, held in the UAE.
As a result, his chances of taking part in the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies are bleak.
However, Ahmed remained confident in the all-rounder’s abilities to represent Bangladesh but acknowledged the difference between playing for a franchise and representing the national team.
“There is a marked difference between playing for a franchise and representing the national team; team preparation and cohesion are key. Given the current circumstances, it is understandable that Shakib may not be in the best mental frame to compete at the highest level for his country. “
