Bangladesh will have the services of Shakib Al Hasan, who decided against resting for the all-important tour. The all-rounder will travel to the Rainbow Nation on Sunday.
Shakib Al Hasan will travel to South Africa on Sunday (AFP Photo)
HIGHLIGHTS
- Shakib Al Hasan will travel to South Africa on Sunday
- Shakib had initially requested rest and opted out of the tour
- Bangladesh will play 3 ODIs and 2 Tests in South Africa
Days after the Bangladesh Cricket Board said Shakib Al Hasan would not be available for selection until April, the all-rounder made himself available for the tour of South Africa, starting from March 18.
Bangladesh play South Africa in three one-day internationals from Friday and a two-Test series that begins on March 31.
The BCB had said earlier this week that Shakib was not picked in the squad as he had put in a request for rest.
“I spoke to (BCB president Nazmul Hassan) for the last two days, when we planned the entire year. I am available for all three formats,” Shakib said on Saturday.
“The board will decide when to give me rest, that includes the South Africa series. I am available for the series.”
SHAKIB TO TRAVEL TO SA ON SUNDAY
BCB chief Nazmul Hasan, who was also present with Shakib at a news conference, said the board granted Shakib leave after the all-rounder said he didn’t want to go to South Africa, adding that the star player was struggling to make up his mind.
Shakib had spoken about taking a break after the recently concluded white-ball series with Afghanistan.
“(Shakib) told us that he didn’t want to go to South Africa,” Hassan said. “We granted him leave, which was later announced to the media. Then, the day before yesterday, he told me he was mentally tired. It can happen to anyone at any time.
“He was having trouble making up his mind, so we supported him during this time. The board is always with them (the players).
“He will travel to South Africa tomorrow. If he skips a match in this series, please accept it. He wants to play. That is the most important thing.”
Shakib did not play in the two-Test series in New Zealand in January either. His last test was against Pakistan in December.