Uncapped all-rounder Fazle Mahmud named Shakib Al Hasan's replacement for New Zealand Tests

All-rounder Fazle Mahmud has earned maiden call up in Bangladesh’s Test squad ahead of the two-Test series – a part of the World Test Championship – against New Zealand, starting from January 1.

Mahmud has been slotted in as veteran Shakib Al Hasan’s replacement as the all-rounder has decided against participating in the series. Shakib was initially named in the squad despite him having informed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) of his wish to not be considered. Later, however, he was exempted as the board granted him leave.

“We have accepted his [Shakib] request,” BCB president Nazmul Hassan had said. “We have been saying this for a long time that we have no objection if a player wants to take a break or rest, but it has to be informed officially. The thing is, we want to be informed about such a decision in advance as it is difficult for us if it is informed suddenly. From January, if anyone wants a break, he has to inform us in advance so that we can prepare alternatives.”

As for Mahmud, the top-order batter was the leading run-getter in Bangladesh’s National Cricket League this season, with 603 runs at an impressive average of 60.30. He made his international debut against Zimbabwe in 2018 but has not managed to cement his spot in the team.

”Fazle Mahmud will be part of the Test squad as Shakib’s replacement and we have decided to include him as he is among the runs in the domestic circuit,” Akram Khan, BCB’s cricket operations chief, said.

Bangladesh will play the first Test starting on New Year’s Day in Mount Maunganui, followed by the second from January 9 to 13 in Christchurch. Notably, Bangladesh have never won any game in New Zealand irrespective of the format.

Meanwhile, the team has also roped in former Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Hearth as their spin bowling consultant for the tour.

Bangladesh Squad for New Zealand Tests: Mominul Haque (c), Shadman Islam, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Fazle Mahmud, Liton Das (wk), Nurul Hasan (wk), Yasir Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Abu Jayed, Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Khaled Ahmed, Shohidul Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mohammad Naim