From being the biggest icon in the country’s cricket, Shakib Al Hasan has now become a fugitive. A murder case hangs over his head, preventing his return to the country. Meanwhile, he faces additional limitations—he is unable to bowl.
At the twilight of his career, Shakib is now forced to reflect on his bowling. His bowling action has been called into question, and the ICC has imposed a ban on his bowling. As a result, Shakib is under immense pressure, and there is uncertainty about his inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad.
The upcoming Champions Trophy will be held abroad, leaving Shakib with a slim chance of participating. However, much depends on the board’s decision and the outcome of his bowling action test. Unfortunately, time is not on his side.
The Champions Trophy is set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan. The squad announcement is only 3-4 days away. Yet, many questions remain unresolved for the BCB, with Shakib’s issue being a significant one.
Speculation about whether Shakib can return to the national team has been unending. On Wednesday, it was revealed that he failed his second bowling action test. He had undergone the test in Chennai on December 21 but did not receive clearance for his bowling action.
What message does this send to the selectors about Shakib? In response, Chief Selector Gazi Ashraf Lipu said, “No directive has come regarding Shakib. We have asked the board whether he is available, but we have not yet received a complete answer.”
However, Lipu expressed his interest in having Shakib back. He is even willing to wait a few more days for him. Rumors suggest that Shakib has taken the test again. For now, it’s a matter of waiting. Lipu remains hopeful that the situation will become clearer within a day or two.
