Star Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is in good physical condition and is expected to play in the upcoming second Test match against India. Media reports had initially suggested that Shakib had played the first Test with a finger injury, which led to Bangladesh suffering a 280-run defeat. However, coach Chandika Hathurusinghe confirmed that there are no injury concerns for Shakib and he is eligible for selection in the next match.
Hathurusinghe mentioned that he has not received any information about an injury to Shakib from the physio or anyone else. The decision to include Shakib in the playing XI will be based on the conditions of the pitch in Kanpur, where the second Test will take place. Despite facing external pressures due to legal issues back home, Shakib has been a key player for Bangladesh in recent Test series.
After playing a vital role in Bangladesh’s historic Test series win against Pakistan, Shakib chose to play county cricket in England before joining the team for the India tour. In the first Test against India, he scored 32 and 25 runs but failed to take any wickets. Hathurusinghe expressed his satisfaction with Shakib’s performance but also acknowledged that there is room for improvement. Bangladesh will be looking to bounce back in the second Test after a disappointing loss in the opening match.
India, led by captain Rohit Sharma, will aim to extend their lead in the World Test Championship rankings with another strong performance in the upcoming Test match. They have a busy schedule ahead, with series against New Zealand and Australia on the horizon. The Indian team will rely on their depth in fast bowling, with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj providing valuable experience to the newcomers like Akash Deep, who impressed with two wickets in his second Test appearance.
Deep emphasized the importance of understanding his strengths as a bowler and focusing on delivering consistent performances. The pitch at Kanpur’s Green Park stadium is expected to favor spin bowlers as the match progresses, making it crucial for the bowlers to maintain a disciplined line and length. Despite the challenges posed by the conditions, Deep is determined to contribute to the team’s success and uphold the legacy of Indian bowlers who have excelled in the past.
