Shakib Al Hasan will play the knockout game only when he is fit says coach Courtney Walsh
The Bangladesh skipper might be rested for the final group game of the Nidahas Trophy.
Bangladesh has missed the services of their star allrounder skipper Shakib Al Hasan in the few previous series after the left-hander was ruled out from the T20 series against Sri Lanka because of a finger injury. However, the all-rounder has flown for Sri Lanka to take part in the knockout game against the hosts.
Although head coach Courtney Walsh made things clear during the press-conference that Shakib will play the match only If he is 100% match fit.
The board while naming the squad for Nidahas Trophy T20 tri-series involving hosts Sri Lanka and India added Shakib in their squad as he was set to lead the side. Mahmadullah has been leading the side in the tri-series where Bangladesh chased down a massive target of 215 on the back of a terrific inning from wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim.
Will have to pass the fitness test: Walsh
India after a defeat against the Sri Lankan side in the series opener made their way to the finals by beating Sri Lanka in their 2nd clash while they continued their winning record against Bangladesh as they made their way to the finals.With a win apiece, the clash today between the two side is a virtual semi-final match as the winning team will meet India in the finals on Sunday.
Walsh during his press conference said that they regular skipper was always in the scheme fo things for the tournament and If he passes the fitness test, he will be considered for the selection. “Like any other player, he will be assessed. If he is fit, he will be considered for selection. We are hoping he will be fit enough to play. He had a net session in Dhaka. There won’t be any confusion,” said Walsh.
“We were hoping to have him from the beginning of the tournament. He was always part of the set-up. We knew he was going to make a comeback if there was any chance for him. It is nothing to worry about. Once Shakib is fit, we are going to welcome him to the team,” Walsh added.
If the left-hander manages to return and play the knockout game, It will surely boost the chances of the side.
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