Shakib granted break from SA Tests

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief selector Akram Khan has informed in press conference that Shakib Al Hasan is to be granted a break for the two Test matches against South Africa.

"Yesterday, in a letter addressed to the CEO, Shakib requested for a six-month break from Test cricket," Akram Khan said during the presser.

"We have discussed the matter among ourselves. For the time being we are not keeping Shakib in the first and the Second Test.

"He will not take part in the first Test but if he wants to then he can play in the second Test. That decision depends on him.

Akram also informed that Shakib will not be travelling with the Test team but reiterated that Shakib can play in the second Test if he wants to.

On the matter of why Shakib wanted a break, Akram said: "Well, I have not read the letter but Shakib has been playing a lot of cricket and needs rest both mentally and physically so that's why he wants the rest.

Akram Khan also speculated that Shakib is not performing like a player who wants to quit Test cricket. He stated that Shakib is a very important player and the selectors do not want a situation where a player could become injury-prone due to overplaying.

"He is playing really well. He scored a double-hundred in New Zealand and his performance is really good in Tests.  It doesn't occur from his performances that he wants to quit Tests."