Will Shakib Al Hasan play Kanpur Test? Report

Since the end of the Chennai Test, there has been a big question about Bangladesh star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan's availability for the second Test at Kanpur.

During the Chennai Test, the left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan was underused, especially in the first innings of the match. Shakib bowled only eight overs in the first innings, while the left-arm spinner also bowled 13 overs during India’s second innings. However, later Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto clarified that the former Bangladesh captain was underused, especially in the first innings as per team strategy.

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Shakib was injured during the Chennai Test

The left-handed batter Shakib scored 32 and 25 runs in that Chennai Test. While he was batting, he got a hit on his finger against Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s delivery. Although Shakib required a short medical treatment, he continued his batting.

There was a big question about Shakib’s availability for the Kanpur Test. Moreover, in the recent net session, Shakib only batted close to ten balls, which raised the doubt more. 

Shakib is eligible for selection: Chandika Hathurusingha

However, Bangladesh's head coach Chandika Hathurusingha has clarified Shakib’s present status. He straightly denied any injury concern for Shakib and claimed that the experienced all-rounder would be eligible for the Kanpur Test.

Hathurusingha said, "I have not heard anything on Shakib regarding any complaints. I haven't heard from my physio or anyone else so he is eligible for selection."

Despite a good start for Bangladesh in the Chennai Test, the visitors were thrashed by 280 runs. It was India’s largest victory margin against Bangladesh (by runs). 

Bangladesh are challenging for the top two places of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship points table, especially after their recent 2-0 series victory against the hosts Pakistan. However, the Chennai defeat has dropped them in the points table. 

Kanpur will host the second or last Test of the series, starting on September 27. While the hosts India are ready for another strong performance at home, Bangladesh have a major task to change the odds by winning the second Test.