Sports Desk

Bangladesh begins their two-match Test series against South Africa tomorrow at SBNCS, Dhaka, with a strong possibility of winning against a virtually unknown and newly-formed team. After a highly successful Test series in Pakistan and a disappointing series in India, Bangladesh is looking to bounce back on home soil, where they are a formidable foe for any opposition.

Given South Africa's vulnerability to quality spin on turning wickets, Bangladesh could realistically aim for a series win. Bangladesh has never won a Test series, or even a single Test, against South Africa. Out of 14 encounters, Bangladesh has lost 12 and managed to draw two. This series, part of the ICC Test Championship, holds significant importance for both teams.

However, Bangladesh’s hopes took a severe blow with the last-minute withdrawal of ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan. The legendary cricketer, and ICC’s top-ranked all-rounder, was set to retire after playing his final Test for Bangladesh at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium tomorrow. But due to non-cricket-related issues, the Bangladesh government failed to ensure Shakib’s safety during the match.

Shakib, a former Member of Parliament, has been linked to a murder case during the recent political unrest, though he was playing cricket in Canada at the time. The investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed. While announcing his retirement from Test cricket in India, Shakib indicated that the Dhaka Test would be his swan song and requested full security and safe passage abroad after the match. Several advisors to the current caretaker government assured him of safety, and the BCB included him in the squad. Everything was set for a memorable farewell, given the historic value of the occasion.

However, a group of protestors suddenly appeared at SBNCS, opposing Shakib’s inclusion. The next day, Shakib’s supporters responded strongly. Amid fears of a potential clash, a sports advisor recommended that Shakib not travel to Bangladesh. It is unfortunate that the government could not ensure the safety of one of Bangladesh’s greatest ambassadors in global sports.

Shakib Al Hasan, for his remarkable contributions to the nation, deserved better care and attention from the Bangladesh government.

South Africa’s squad is largely unknown, consisting of young, talented newcomers who may find it challenging to handle Bangladesh's strong spin attack on a turning pitch. Even without Shakib, Bangladesh boasts a match-winning spin trio in Taijul Islam, Mehidy Hasan Miraj, and potentially Nayeem Hasan. Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, and Nahid Rana may also test the South African batsmen. However, Bangladesh must bat well and provide their bowlers with enough runs to exploit the home conditions.

Bangladesh Squad: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (Captain), Jaker Ali, Litton Das, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shadman Islam, Zakir Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraj, Hasan Mahmud, Hasan Murad, Nahid Rana, Naeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed.

South Africa Squad: Temba Bavuma (Captain), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Keshav Maharaj, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Nandre Burger.