Shakib not to play in Afghanistan series

Shakib Al Hasan ultimately could not play in the Test at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, despite his interest. Previously, reports across Bangladesh's social media, online news portals, and websites indicated that Shakib would participate in the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in the UAE. However, no official announcement had come from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

On Thursday afternoon, it was clarified that these reports were incorrect. Shakib will not participate in the ODI series against Afghanistan, as BCB President Faruque Ahmed confirmed in a conversation with journalists at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram.

The BCB chief did not clarify whether Shakib chose not to play in the series against Afghanistan or if the BCB decided not to include him. However, he said that Shakib has not been active in the game for several days and may participate in the T10 league in the United Arab Emirates during this time. When he returns to the sport, discussions about his return to the national team will take place.

As of now, it has been reported that Bangladesh will compete in the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan without Shakib.

Following the two-match Test series against South Africa, this series will begin on November 6 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the next matches scheduled for November 9 and 11 at the same venue.