DOT Desk: [2] Ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan tested negative for Covid-19 and will join the side this evening at Chattogram. After a medical checkup, the BCB’s medical team can clarify whether the all-rounder can now play the first Test after he was initially ruled out of the first Test upon testing positive for the virus following his return from USA on Tuesday, reports The Daily Star.
The team management will definitely see the possible availability of Shakib as an opportunity since it enables them to include five bowlers in the side. However, head coach Russell Domingo was keen on an assessment of Shakib’s health after recovering from Covid-19 before taking any decision on his inclusion in the side.
“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. He hasn’t batted or bowled for the last two or three weeks. It is five days of cricket. It is hot. There are all sorts of things to consider,” Domingo said in a press conference at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium today before the Tigers’ practice session.