'Pain-free' Shakib dares to dream ahead of crucial South African challenge

As Bangladesh gear up to take on South Africa, the side will still be recovering from their loss against the hosts, India, in their previous game. One of the biggest players missing for Bangladesh in their clash against India was skipper Shakib Al Hasan.

The 36-year-old missed out on facing India after he was not 100% fit and was out with a quad injury. However, as the upcoming clash against South Africa approaches, Shakib should be up and ready to take on the Proteas. Currently sitting in 7th place in the World Cup standings, Bangladesh have won just one clash out of the four that they have played in the tournament.

Speaking of the same, skipper Shakib Al Hasan came forward to opine on his availability against South Africa. The skipper opined that he is currently pain-free, and if that keeps up, he will feature against the Proteas. 

"What is the fitness parameter? You are just here to ask questions… I don't know what to say to you. I am pain-free, and if that continues, I hope to play,” Shakib Al Hasan was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. 

Taskin is not available for tomorrow's game: Shakib Al Hasan

Furthermore, the experienced skipper came forward to provide a major injury update on Taskin Ahmed. Shakib stated that Taskin will be missing Bangladesh’s clash against South Africa but should be available for selection after that.

"Taskin is not available for tomorrow's game. He will be available after tomorrow's game; he has a shoulder issue that he has had for the last two games. The doctor decided a bit of rest would get him fit for the last four games. We don't want to lose him for the tournament, as he is an important member of this side,” Shakib said.

"If there's no problem with running, I can play tomorrow. I wasn't 100% before the India game. It was also important that I don't risk the rest of the World Cup. I am in a good shape now. I am pain free,” he also stated.