Shakib Al Hasan has voiced his disappointment over the lack of communication from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) after being denied the chance to conclude his ODI career at the Champions Trophy due to a suspicious bowling action. Despite his illustrious record of 71 Tests, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is, the selectors excluded him from the squad, deeming him unsuitable as a specialist batter.
The issue stemmed from an incident in September 2024, when Shakib was reported for a suspect action during a County Championship match between Surrey and Somerset. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) subsequently suspended him from bowling, impacting his international availability. However, after undergoing three assessment tests—two in England and one in India—he was later cleared to bowl in the County Championship and The Hundred.
Leading up to his reassessment, Shakib trained extensively with his childhood mentor, Mohammad Salahuddin, and spent two weeks refining his technique under the guidance of Surrey head coach and former England cricketer Gareth Batty. He also worked closely with Sirajullah Khadem, a former Bangladesh U-19 player, who provided insight into the situation.
“I believe he was reported because he bowled a lot in that match. When you push yourself too hard, especially when fatigued, minor changes in your action can occur, leading to problems,” Khadem explained.
“He is looking sharp now and seems to have regained all his tricks,” he added.
Reflecting on the situation, Shakib stated, “Look, I don’t have any complaints, but if the communication had been better, I would have been happier.”
Photo Credit: Facebook Photo of Shakib Al Hasan
