Shakib Al Hasan - sportstiger

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Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is set to miss the second Test against South Africa, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief selector Minhajul Abedin confirmed on Friday. The former Kolkata Knight Riders player had to return home from South Africa after the third ODI because of a family emergency.

However, BCB hopes that the 35-year-old could be available for the second Test against South Africa. Al Hasan will be travelling to the USA on Friday. "He (Shakib) is not available for the second Test against South Africa. He informed us that he will be going to the USA as he needs to set up his family there," quoted Abedin.

Bangladesh 50-over captain Tamim Iqbal had praised Shakib for his commitment to play with the team while having a family emergency, after the historic ODI series win against South Africa. "It takes a very big heart to endure what Shakib is going through. Not many people could have done it. There would be nothing wrong to want to be with one's family in such a situation," said Tamim.

"For me, his performance wasn't important. But the dedication that he showed was the most important thing. Four or five members of his family are in the hospital. He is still playing and smiling with the team. It takes a big heart," he added.

Drama before South Africa

The BCB had decided to rest Shakib Al Hasan before South Africa till 30 April because of his apparent commitment issues to his country. BCB head Nazmul Hasan said, “I think it is logical to think that if he was in a poor physical and mental state, he wouldn’t have given his name in the IPL auction.”

“But he went ahead with it. So, does it mean that if he got his IPL contract, he would have said the same thing? We can’t do anything if he doesn’t want to play for Bangladesh.” 

“But he can’t keep saying I will play this game, I won’t play that game. We are soft on those who we love, but they also have to be professional. Otherwise, we will have to take decisions that no one will like,” he added.  But the all-rounder was reinstated to the team before travelling to South Africa.