Bangladesh vs SA: Shakib Al Hasan’s absence ‘extreme’, however Najmul Hossain Shanto urges focal point in cricket

“It’s unfortunate. It should have happened,” Shanto said. “But we can’t spend too much time talking about it the day before the Test match. [Shakib’s arrival] It’s not under our control, so we don’t spend too much time thinking about it. We have to focus on the two important tests and that is what the players are doing. We had plans to expel one of the best players in the world. “All of us personally feel that it is still pending.”

Shakib’s event as a Bangladesh player was a hesitation following the Bangladesh government’s agitation in August; Shakib was a member of the political party that was overthrown. Shanto said the players were focused on cricket, which was why they had not talked about it.

“Our goal is to win the test that starts tomorrow. We would have liked it to be his farewell test. We all know why he can’t come.”

Shanto said replacing Shakib was proving difficult. He said Mehidy Hasan Miraz has shown that he can step forward, but that could unseat him at some point.

“It’s hard to match [Shakib]especially for the captain. It usually allowed us to play as an extra batsman or bowler. Now the number 7 becomes a crucial place. We don’t have anyone exactly like Shakib. bhai but Miraz can be a very good option. He is bowling and batting superbly. There are more responsibilities, for which Miraz is prepared. He has improved his hitting. He is leading the team to good positions, if we look at the latest tests. I hope Miraz can fill that spot in the coming years.”

Left-arm uncovered bowler Hasan Murad replaced Shakib in the team for the first Test. Shanto said Murad deserved the call-up and expressed confidence in his spin attack.

“We have four quality spinners in the team. Hasan Murad has an excellent first-class record. He bowls well on all types of wickets. He is a deserving selection. Nayeem couldn’t make it into the team despite playing well of late. “If you choose three or four spinners tomorrow, all of them are capable, regardless of our combination, we will give our best.”

Bangladesh move into the order of two Tests against South Africa and then won their first match in Pakistan 2-0, before losing 2-0 in the Republic of India earlier this year.