Bangladesh cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Shakib Al Hasan as the country prepares to host South Africa in a two-Test series. The series, set to begin on October 21 in Mirpur, marks the first international cricket fixtures in Bangladesh since the recent political upheaval that saw the toppling of the autocratic premier Sheikh Hasina. Shakib, a controversial figure who had not returned to Bangladesh since the government was overthrown, has expressed his desire to play in what he describes as his swan song.
The 37-year-old Shakib, who had been playing in a domestic Twenty20 cricket competition in Canada as the government fell, has faced criticism for not speaking out during the unrest. However, he has defended his decision to serve under the regime that was eventually toppled. Despite not returning to Bangladesh, Shakib has continued to participate in international cricket, touring Pakistan and India with the approval of the interim government. His retirement from international cricket last month came as a surprise, but he expressed his desire to play one last Test series at home to bid farewell to his fans.
The upcoming Test series against South Africa will offer Shakib the opportunity to say goodbye to his supporters and pay his respects to the students who sacrificed their lives during the revolution. The second Test is scheduled to take place in Chittagong starting on October 29, with the Bangladesh team led by Najmul Hossain Shanto. Fast bowler Khaled Ahmed has been excluded from the squad for the series against South Africa, as Bangladesh looks to build on their recent success in Pakistan while also addressing shortcomings exposed in their series against India.
As Bangladesh prepares to take on South Africa, they will be under the guidance of interim head coach Phil Simmons, a former all-rounder from Trinidad. The suspension of former coach Chandika Hathurusingha due to alleged misconduct has led the team to rely on Simmons for leadership during the series. Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the team, Bangladesh remains hopeful for a strong performance against South Africa and is eager to see how Shakib Al Hasan will fare in what could be his final Test series.
