Bangladesh reverse decision to rest Shakib Al Hasan for tour of South Africa
India Today
Bangladesh will have the services of Shakib Al Hasan, who decided against resting for the all-important tour. The all-rounder will travel to the Rainbow Nation on Sunday.
Days after the Bangladesh Cricket Board said Shakib Al Hasan would not be available for selection until April, the all-rounder made himself available for the tour of South Africa, starting from March 18.
Bangladesh play South Africa in three one-day internationals from Friday and a two-Test series that begins on March 31.
The BCB had said earlier this week that Shakib was not picked in the squad as he had put in a request for rest.
"I spoke to (BCB president Nazmul Hassan) for the last two days, when we planned the entire year. I am available for all three formats," Shakib said on Saturday.
"The board will decide when to give me rest, that includes the South Africa series. I am available for the series."
BCB chief Nazmul Hasan, who was also present with Shakib at a news conference, said the board granted Shakib leave after the all-rounder said he didn't want to go to South Africa, adding that the star player was struggling to make up his mind.
Shakib had spoken about taking a break after the recently concluded white-ball series with Afghanistan.
