‘Bad luck that we miss Shakib’s services when needed most’

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Nazmul Hassan said today that it is the team's bad luck that they miss the service of Shakib Al Hasan when required most.

"In this matter, you cannot say anything, you cannot do anything. It's our bad luck as we will not get him for the first Test [against Sri Lanka]. We miss his services whenever we need him. We can now only wish for his recovery," said Hassan while he was talking to the reporters during the National Sports Award program today.  

Bangladesh suffered a major blow ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka, starting at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram from May 15, as premier all-rounder Shakib was ruled out for the game after testing positive for Covid-19.

"His absence is a big setback for us because you cannot deny that Sri Lanka are a very strong team and that we are weak in the Test format. I had a talk with him yesterday and he informed me that right at this moment, he is feeling well. We will do everything as per our protocol," Hassan added.

The BCB boss also said that Shakib's absence always makes things difficult as Bangladesh struggle to find balance in the playing eleven. However, Hassan believes it could also be an opportunity for others.

"We have some other experienced players in the team and if they can deliver then I don't see any reason why we would not win against any team in the world," Hassan said.