Uncertainty Surrounds Shakib Al Hasan’s Participation in Champions Trophy
The Bangladesh cricket team is facing a setback as veteran player Shakib Al Hasan’s bowling action has been deemed illegal, putting his participation in the Champions Trophy in jeopardy. Shakib’s bowling action was first questioned during a county match in England, leading to a ban and subsequent testing under the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) global cricket rules.
Failed Review Tests
Shakib underwent two review tests, one at Loughborough University and another in Chennai, but unfortunately, both tests yielded unfavorable results. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) closely monitored the second test, but the outcome was not in Shakib’s favor.
BCB’s Official Statement
In response to Shakib’s failed review tests, the BCB issued a statement stating that the ban on his bowling action will continue until further investigation is conducted. The statement read, “The ban will remain in place until the investigation at the Loughborough University testing center finds his action to be correct.” However, the BCB did confirm that Shakib can continue to play as a batsman in domestic and international cricket.
Implications for the Champions Trophy
With the Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, the Bangladesh team was hopeful that Shakib would join the squad. However, his failure to clear the review tests has put his participation in doubt. BCB Chief Farooq Ahmed and Bangladesh team captain Nazmul Shanto had expressed optimism about Shakib’s inclusion in the squad if he cleared the test, but his bowling action ban has now cast uncertainty over his selection. Shakib has not played any international matches since the Test series against India last year.