Hasan Murad replaces Shakib for South Africa Test

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has named left-arm spinner Hasan Murad as the replacement for Shakib Al Hasan in the squad for the first Test of two-match series against South Africa, set to begin on October 21 in Dhaka.

Shakib, unable to return to Bangladesh due to concerns over his safety following public unrest, will miss the match. Shakib, who was part of the previous government that fell due to a student movement in August, has been a key figure in Bangladesh's cricket team across all formats.

Hasan Murad, 23, has had a promising first-class career since his debut in 2021, taking 136 wickets in just 30 matches. His strong performances in domestic cricket have earned him this opportunity to step into the Test arena.

BCB Selection Committee Chairman Gazi Ashraf Hossain stated, "Shakib is unavailable for the first Test. Although he's nearing the end of his Test career, his experience is invaluable. We do not have an immediate replacement who can contribute as effectively with both bat and ball."

He expressed confidence in Murad's abilities, citing the young spinner's impressive record in first-class cricket as a key factor in the selection.

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, Hasan Murad.