By Star Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is set to play in the second Test against India, with no injury concerns reported, coach Chandika Hathurusinghe confirmed on Wednesday. Despite media speculation regarding a finger injury during the first Test, in which India defeated Bangladesh by 280 runs, Hathurusinghe reassured that Shakib is fit for selection.
“There’s no doubt about his participation. I have not heard anything from the physio or anyone else regarding any injury,” he stated in Kanpur, where the match will take place on Friday. Shakib’s performance in the first Test included scores of 32 and 25, but he went wicketless.
Hathurusinghe expressed confidence in Shakib’s abilities, emphasizing the team’s overall performance rather than focusing solely on individual contributions.
India, led by Rohit Sharma, aims to strengthen their position at the top of the World Test Championship standings following their commanding win. Meanwhile, rookie bowler Akash Deep, who took two wickets in the last match, is focused on delivering consistent performances as India prepares for a series against New Zealand and a subsequent tour to Australia.
The pitch at Kanpur’s Green Park stadium is anticipated to be slow and low, with spin likely to be a significant factor by day three.
