Hasan Murad to replace Shakib for South Africa Test

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan was interested to play the first Test against South Africa, starting on October 21. 

There raises concerns about his safety after returning to the country and had reportedly been assured of receiving adequate security but protests began before his arrival. 

A group of protestors under the banner of 'Mirpur Chhatro Janata' also gathered at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Thursday and informed the BCB that they would protest Shakib's appearance in the match.

In the circumstance, Youth and Sports adviser Asif Mahmud said in a statement that he had advised Shakib not to return to the country to ‘avoid untoward situations’.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has added Hasan Murad to the Test squad for the first match of the two-Test series against South Africa, starting on 21 October.

Hasan Murad, a left-arm spinner, replaces Shakib Al Hasan, who could not return home to play the match in Dhaka due to concerns for his safety from public anger.

The 23-year-old Murad has taken 136 wickets in 30 first class matches since his debut in 2021.
Bangladesh squad for Dhaka Test vs South Africa:

Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (WK), Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana and Hasan Murad.