Shakib’s availability depends on fitness

Shakib Al Hasan tested negative for Covid-19 and this evening will fly to Chattogram to join the team. After arriving there, the all-rounder has to go under a medical checkup. Later, the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) medical team will come to a decision on whether Shakib can now play the first Test or not

Tiger head coach Russell Domingo said in a press conference, "Coming straight into a Test match, we need to check his fitness and assess where he is. He has just come off Covid, and he hasn't played much cricket. He's obviously a big player for us, balances the team. But we need to see how he is tomorrow.”

"I have had Covid badly, so the energy is not quite the same. You can't go into straightaway. It is not a T20 or ODI which is done in six or seven overs. It is going to happen for over five days.

“Of course, we want him to play, he is one of the best cricketers that's ever played. But we need to make sure that he gives himself the best chance to perform, and fulfill his role. Bowl at least 15 overs a day, bat for three or four overs in the top six.

"Anybody would want a fully fit Shakib in your best XI. It is very difficult to play if he is 50-60 per cent fit," he mentioned.