Shakib Al Hasan requests BCB for a 6-month break from Test cricket before the African tour

Bangladeshi cricketer Shakib Al Hasan. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP/Getty Images)
Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is contemplating a break from Test cricket for a duration of six months. BCB officials on Saturday (September 9) confirmed the development to Cricbuzz and said a decision will be made only after the star all-rounder submits an official letter stating the same.

It has been learned that Shakib had first mentioned the same to the Bangladesh Cricket Board President, citing excessive work-load and the need to rejuvenate himself. The no. 1 all-rounder feels that a six-month break will help him get back to the longest format of the game with the same intent and energy level.

Squad for Africa

BCB will soon be announcing the squad for the South Africa series. And it is believed that the board has delayed the announcement following Shakib’s request. The squad is scheduled to fly on September 16.

“We will take a decision once he submits the official letter,” BCB cricket operations chairman Akram Khan told Cricbuzz. “We just heard about such a thing but there is nothing official about it.” According to sources, Shakib is ready to fulfill his national commitments in the limited-overs formats but isn’t sure about going through the rigors of the longer form immediately.

Shakib will change his mind: Officials

However, Chief selector Minhajul Abedin is hopeful that Shakib will change his mind in due course of time. Abedin didn’t comment on the possibilities until the board received an official letter from Shakib.

“I think he will be part of the Test squad. We can only think of a replacement when we get an official letter from him. Until that arrives, we can always feel he is part of the Test squad,” Minhajul told Cricbuzz on Sunday.With important tournaments coming up, Bangladesh would hope to get Shakib in the lineup, as his all-around skills and experience will come handy. Shakib played a vital role in the 1st test match between Bangladesh and Australia. He scored 84 in the first innings and took 10 wickets with the ball.