Shakib returns to skill training

Bangladesh ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan trained with bat and ball for the first time today at Mirpur following the end of his one-year ban.

Shakib, who underwent fitness test on Wednesday, took to the nets today at BCB's Academy Ground in Mirpur. The all-rounder is gearing up for the Bangabandhu T20 Cup, slated to be played from November 24.

Shakib batted for a few hours with pacer Shafiul Islam, Al-Amin Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Mehedi Hasan Rana, Mohammad Saifuddin and Taskin Ahmed bowling to the all-rounder during the net session.

Shakib's mentor Mohammad Salahuddin was present and oversaw Shakib's progress during the session. Shakib, who will feature for Gemcon Khulna alongside national teammate Mahmudullah Riyad, took the opportunity to work with the coach even as Salahuddin himself would coach Gazi Group Chattogram in the upcoming tournament. Since the tournament's official practice sessions are yet to begin, Shakib worked on his skills with Salahuddin, just as he had done before the World Cup in England.

The ace all-rounder however did not bowl much, merely content to roll his arms in an empty net without a batsman present.

Shakib returned to the country on Friday following his brief visit of India and today returned to training after a day's rest.