Shakib Al Hasan’s participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 is uncertain as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is awaiting the result of the second test of the All-rounder’s bowling action from Chennai, which is expected to be known in two days.
Shakib Al Hasan has been banned from bowling in international cricket after the first test of his action from Loughborough University, England came negative.
The participating teams need to announce their squads by January 12. In September 2024, Shakib was reported for suspect action during a county match for Surrey, after which the ECB suspended him from bowling.
Shakib has been banned from bowling in international cricket as per clause 11.3 of the ICC’s regulations for illegal bowling actions.
Shakib underwent a second bowling test in Chennai, the results of which are awaited. BCB’s selectors’ chief Gazi Ashraf Hossain called the entire incident ‘shocking’ and said that BCB is patiently waiting for the results.
“It was very shocking to hear that Shakib couldn’t pass the bowling action test (at Loughborough). I will have to find out whether he has tested himself again,” said Hossain.
“We have to wait for this information. The board hasn’t instructed us fully on Shakib. I think every minute counts. I am sure we can clarify this in a day or two,” Hossain added.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Salahuddin said that he has given some tips over a video call to Shakib in the last few weeks to help him correct his bowling action issue.
“He already went through the test,” said Salahuddin. “I know the A-Z of Shakib’s bowling. I couldn’t go and train him (in India). I think he knows what to do. We discussed a few things about what he has to do with his arm.”
“We don’t need a big change in his bowling action. He can do it quickly too. But when an allegation comes, a person usually has to think about it.”
Shakib couldn’t bowl with a correct action to impart more spin on the ball during the county game in Taunton in September.
“I think it was due to extreme workload. Maybe he tried to impart more spin on the ball, for which he needed to use his upper body,” Salahuddin said.
“It must have been one or two balls which came into question. When you can’t get strength from your legs, you have to drive from your arms. It is natural. I think he can fix it.”
Shakib hasn’t played any form of international cricket since the test series against India, which Bangladesh lost 0-2. He also missed out on playing his ‘farewell’ test in South Africa at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
Bangladesh will play their first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against India on February 20 at Dubai International Stadium.
