Shakib back, Shanto out for first two ODIs against Sri Lanka

Bangladesh welcomed back the star player Shakib Al Hasan in the final squad on Thursday for the first two ODIs of the three-match series against Sri Lanka, starting on May 23 in Dhaka.

Selectors have rewarded young pacer Shoriful Islam for his consistent performances with a maiden call-up to the Tigers' ODI squad.

The team will be captained by Tamim and will also feature the return of all-rounder Mosaddek Hossain, who last played an ODI match in 2019.

However highly rated batsman Najmul Hossain Shanto has not been named in the final squad while experienced Imrul Kayes’ recent form has not been enough to earn him a recall to the first two ODIs. 

Pace trio Al Amin Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Rubel Hossain and spinner Nasum Ahmed also missed out on the final squad, having been part of the squad that was whitewashed in New Zealand earlier this year.

The final squad also saw the return of paceman Mustafizur Rahman. Both Shakib and Mustafiz were left out of the Test series in Sri Lanka. The two were playing in the IPL 2021 before the tournament was suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The BCB  selectors also showed faith in the abilities of Soumya Sarkar, despite his recent poor form.

The ODI series, which is part of the ICC ODI Super League, will take place on Sunday, May 23, Tuesday, May 25 and Friday, May 28 respectively.

All three matches are Day-Night fixtures and will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka.

Final Squad: 

Tamim Iqbal (capt), Liton Das, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mohammad Mithun, Mahmudullah, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mohammad Saifuddin, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Soumya Sarkar, Mosaddek Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Shoriful Islam.

Stand by: 

Naim Sheikh, Taijul Islam, Shohidul Islam, Aminul Islam Biplob.